Modi celebrates Diwali at Bastar base after Naxalism defeat

Historic milestone of zero CRPF casualties

He referenced the 2010 Dantewada attacks, which resulted in the deaths of 76 CRPF personnel and 44 civilians.

Development and welfare in formerly Naxal-affected zones

The government implemented national security decisions that targeted Naxal funding, destroyed fake currency networks, and choked weapon supply lines. Prime Minister Modi stated that India has won the battle against Naxalism and separatism over the past 12 years while also winning a war against poverty.

Modi credited the Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas campaign for ending Naxal violence and lifting these 50 crore people out of extreme poverty.

Development in these areas includes the construction of over 15,000 kilometers of roads and more than 9,500 mobile towers.

Under the PM JANMAN initiative, remote tribal villages received water, electricity, and roads, and surrendered Naxals were rehabilitated. Modi credited welfare initiatives including Jan Dhan banking, PM Awas homes, Mudra loans, SVANidhi support, Ayushman Bharat, free rations, and Har Ghar Jal for removing basic anxieties and improving lives.

Political debate over 'Dimagi Naxals' remarks

Prime Minister Modi said that while armed Naxals are removed from forests, "Dimagi Naxals" remain a threat as they have infiltrated organizations and political parties to incite people against the Constitution and democracy.

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh criticized these remarks, accusing the Prime Minister of using Diwali to target political rivals. Ramesh alleged that the comments reflect a pattern of branding those who disagree with the government.

National security strategy and future goals

Prime Minister Modi quoted the Sanskrit phrase ‘Aabhyantaram Bhayam Rakshyam, Asaaram Baahyato Bhayam’ to explain that strong internal security prevents external enemies from causing harm.

The Bastar Olympics are currently taking place, which Modi cited as a symbol of transformation where children engage in sports instead of using guns.

He cited the nation's track record of fulfilling pledges such as the abrogation of Article 370, building household toilets, and expanding vaccination coverage.

Widespread Diwali festivities across India

India celebrated Diwali on 8 November 2026, with the festival period beginning on 6 November with Dhanteras and continuing with Choti Diwali on 7 November.

In Ayodhya, lakhs of earthen diyas illuminated 56 ghats along the Saryu riverbank.

Goa observed the Narkasur Vadh ritual, which involves burning giant effigies of the demon king Narkasur. This tradition requires weeks of preparation to create elaborate effigies, which are displayed and burned amid music and dance to symbolize the triumph of good over darkness.

In Mathura, lamps were lit using a sacred flame taken from various temples within the premises. The Sri Keshavdev temple featured a floral decoration known as Phool Bangla, and MLA Sri Kant Sharma attended the celebrations.

Security and transport logistics for the festival

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Diwali wishes to the nation on Sunday. He posted on X, "Diwali wishes to everyone!

Modi said the festival represents the nation’s determination to overcome darkness.

The CRPF, BSF, and CISF also extended their wishes to citizens, personnel, and their families. CRPF Director General G P Singh wished wisdom, joy, good health, and prosperity to the public and his personnel.

Delhi Police deployed personnel across all 15 districts, focusing on shopping complexes, metro stations, bus terminals, and other sensitive locations. Security measures included the use of plain-clothes officers, pickets, intensified vehicle checks, and CCTV monitoring.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said 18,000 special trains ran this year to meet demand during Diwali, Durga Puja, and Chhath, serving more than two crore passengers.