From Bastar's forests to ramp: Surrendered women Naxals steal show at fashion event in Raipur
Raipur, August 10
As a striking sign of transformation, women who once moved through the dense forests of Chhattisgarh's Bastar region carrying weapons as Naxalites walked the ramp to loud applause at a programme organised to mark National Handloom Day in Raipur, showcasing their change since surrendering and rejoining the mainstream.
The women donned handloom outfits and walked confidently on the ramp as part of the Tribal fashion show event.
Earlier last week, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, met with Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture Shivraj Singh Chouhan in New Delhi on Friday to request special relaxations in central infrastructure schemes to accelerate development in the state's Bastar region.
Speaking after the meeting, Chief Minister Sai highlighted that after decades of insurgency, Bastar has transitioned into a peaceful zone, creating an urgent need for robust road connectivity to integrate the region into mainstream development.
"Today, accompanied by our state's Deputy CM Vijay Sharma, we met with the Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture, Shivraj Singh Chouhan; officials were also present during the meeting. After 40-50 years, our Bastar region has finally become Naxal-free, and there is a great need for development there. Connectivity is crucial from a development perspective," said Vishnu Deo Sai, Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh.
The Chief Minister noted that while Chhattisgarh has benefited significantly under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), the unique demographic profile of Bastar poses challenges under standard central funding guidelines.
Because the region features low population density spread across vast geographical areas, strict population thresholds under current PMGSY norms make it difficult to construct roads connecting remote habitations.
"Although we have received many roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, the population density in that area is very low; therefore, we met with the Minister to request some relaxation in the scheme's norms. He listened to us patiently and assured us that he would take the initiative in this matter," Sai said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Beautiful initiative! But I hope the government is also focusing on livelihood opportunities for these women beyond just photo-ops. Fashion shows are nice, but sustainable employment, education for their children, and healthcare access will truly help them rebuild their lives. Let's not make this just a one-time spectacle.
This is a powerful story of redemption and reintegration. It's encouraging to see communities that were once torn apart by insurgency now healing. The women's confidence on the ramp shows that with the right support, anyone can turn their life around. Wishing them all the best for their future!
As someone from Chhattisgarh, this makes me emotional. Bastar has suffered so much over the decades. Seeing these women on the ramp means the peace process is actually working. The CM's push for better roads is also crucial—development will ensure Naxalism doesn't make a comeback. Proud moment! 💪
Respectful criticism: While this is a positive step, we must ensure these women aren't being used merely for symbolic gestures. The real test is whether they have access to permanent rehabilitation support—jobs, housing, and psychological counseling. A one-time fashion show shouldn't be the headline; long-term integration should be.
What a wonderful way to celebrate National Handloom Day! These women are showing that our traditional textiles are not just for exhibitions but for empowerment. The confidence they displayed on the ramp is inspirational. Also, the CM's request for relaxed road norms in Bastar makes total sense—how else will remote villages connect to mainstream development?
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.