Historic Independence Day: National Flag to Be Hoisted in Naxalite-Affected Villages of Bastar

For the first time, thirteen remote villages in the Naxalite-affected Bastar region of Chhattisgarh will see the national flag hoisted on Independence Day. Recent security force camps have been aiding development and bringing government welfare schemes to these villages, marking a significant step toward progress and peace.

Thirteen remote villages located in the Naxalite-hit Bastar region of Chhattisgarh will witness the hoisting of the national flag for the first time on Independence Day, police said.

In the last seven months, the establishment of new security force camps in these villages has paved the way for development, they added.

Inspector General of Police of Bastar Range Sundarraj P told PTI that the Tricolour would be hoisted in Nerlighat (Dantewada district), Panidobir (Kanker), Gundam, Putkel and Chhutvahi (Bijapur), Kasturmeta, Maspur, Irakbhatti and Mohndi (Narayanpur), Tekalgudem, Puvarti, Lakhapal and Pulanpad (Sukma) villages on Thursday, marking a historic first for these areas.

These newly-established camps, set up after Republic Day last year, have provided a fresh and vibrant identity for the region and its inhabitants, Sundarraj P added. He emphasized that these camps symbolize hope and the potential for a peaceful and prosperous Bastar.

The camps have also facilitated the reach of government welfare schemes to the people, primarily tribals, thereby contributing to the overall development of the areas, he stated.

For over three decades, Bastar division, which comprises seven districts, has been grappling with Left Wing Extremism.

Meanwhile, preparations have been completed for Independence Day celebrations across the state, including capital Raipur, a government public relations official revealed.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai will hoist the national flag at the Police Parade Ground in Raipur, receiving the guard of honour from various security units.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao will hoist the national flag in Bilaspur, Deputy CM Vijay Sharma in Jagdalpur (Bastar district headquarters), and Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu in Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur district.

Other ministers and MLAs will participate in Independence Day celebrations in various locations across the state.

Security has been tightened across the state, especially in Maoist-affected regions, for the Independence Day celebrations, according to police.

(With inputs from agencies.)