Raipur: Substantial efforts have been made to tackle red menace in Chhattisgarh and Naxalism issue will be resolved considerably in the next three years, Chief Minister Raman Singh said Saturday.
"Substantial efforts have been made to wipe out Naxalism from the state and the issue will be solved to a certain extent in Bastar and other insurgency-hit areas in the next three years," Singh told reporters.
"The Sarguja and Jashpur area in the state's northern part was affected by the red movement a few years back and it was difficult for people to come out (of their houses). Various incidents used to take place in all districts, but now this area is no more affected by Naxalism," he said.
A large part of Bastar region in southern part of the state is free from Naxalism and the activity of the ultras is limited to a few areas, said Singh, who completed 12 years in office today.
"The day is not far when people will fearlessly travel from Raipur to Bastar. This day will soon arrive when the entire area will be safe," he added.
Singh informed that his government has constructed 268 km of roads in the Bastar area in the last one year.
The government's aim is to create 500 km of roads (in the area) and the target will be achieved, he said.
"People's confidence has increased in the Bastar region and rebels in a large number have turned themselves in. There is pressure of police and locals on Naxals," the Chief Minister said.
People of Bastar want development, Singh said adding that they have experienced development in the region and education institutions are coming up.
"People have become aware and with it Naxalism can be wiped out. Naxal issue cannot only be solved with the help of gun," he said.
Singh expressed hope that in the next three years the state government will be in a better position and Baster will move ahead with peace and development.
