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Bastar's Historic Republic Day: 47 Ex-Maoist Villages Unfurl Tricolour First Time

In a historic moment, 47 villages in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region celebrated Republic Day for the first time, unfurling the national flag. This marks a significant democratic milestone for an area long gripped by Left-wing extremism. The achievement follows improved security from coordinated government efforts and the establishment of new security camps. These camps have enabled the delivery of basic development like roads, schools, and banking to remote communities.

Key Points: 47 Bastar Villages Celebrate Republic Day for First Time

  • 47 villages celebrated Republic Day for first time
  • 59 new security camps established in Maoist areas
  • Development reaches remote villages with roads and schools
  • Over 100 security camps now operational in Bastar
2 min read

Chhattisgarh: Tricolour unfurls for first time in 47 villages of ex-Maoist stronghold Bastar

In a historic shift, 47 villages in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region celebrated Republic Day for the first time, marking a major victory for peace and democracy.

"Bastar is now being moved out of the shadow of violence and integrated into the mainstream of development. - Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai"

Raipur, January 26

A long-awaited celebration of democracy unfolded today in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, which for decades remained in the grip of Left-wing extremism. In a historic moment, 47 villages across the districts of Bijapur, Narayanpur and Sukma--where national festivals could never be celebrated earlier--observed Republic Day for the first time on January 26. The occasion marks a significant milestone in the democratic restoration of Bastar.

Over the past two years, the security situation in the region has improved considerably due to a coordinated strategy by the Central and State governments, sustained operations by security forces, and growing cooperation from local communities. As part of these efforts, 59 new security camps have been established in Maoist-affected areas, ensuring a permanent administrative and security presence. Last year, Republic Day celebrations were held in 53 villages; this year, 47 more villages have joined the democratic tradition.

For the first time, the Tricolour was unfurled in these villages, with local residents participating enthusiastically in Republic Day ceremonies. Areas once considered too risky for national celebrations witnessed villagers voluntarily coming forward to take part in democratic events.

More than 100 security camps are now operational across the Bastar region. Beyond strengthening security, their presence has paved the way for development. Basic facilities such as roads, schools, healthcare services, communication networks and banking are gradually reaching remote villages. The recent resumption of banking services in the Maoist-affected Jagargunda area reflects this positive transformation.

According to Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, Bastar is now being moved out of the shadow of violence and integrated into the mainstream of development. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the Chhattisgarh government is consistently working to strengthen peace, trust and democracy in the region.

The Tricolour unfurled in these 47 villages on January 26, 2026, stands as a powerful symbol of peace, democracy and a new beginning for Bastar.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who has followed the situation in Bastar for years, this is monumental. The real test will be sustaining this peace with genuine development—roads and banks are a start, but quality education and healthcare must follow. Hoping this new beginning lasts.
R
Rohit P
Credit where it's due. The coordinated efforts of police, CRPF, and local administration are showing results. Establishing permanent camps was a smart move. It's not just about flag hoisting; it's about restoring faith in the system. Good work.
P
Priyanka N
While this is positive, we must remember the long road ahead. Many villages are still cut off. The article mentions "growing cooperation from local communities"—this is key. Peace cannot be imposed only by security forces; it must be won through trust and addressing root causes like poverty and land rights.
V
Vikram M
Imagine not being able to celebrate Independence Day or Republic Day in your own country for decades. My heart swells with pride for these villagers. May the tricolour fly high forever in Bastar! The real heroes are the local people who chose peace.
M
Michael C
This is a significant achievement in counter-insurgency and community outreach. The focus now should be irreversible integration. Banking services resuming is a major practical step. Hope the development reaches everyone equally.

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