Development is the only answer to violence, says PM Modi in Chhattisgarh

In an apparent message to Naxals who have picked up guns, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that development was the only answer to violence.

While addressing a rally in poll-bound Chhattisgarh’s Bhilai, Modi said, “I think development is the only answer to violence and conspiracy of any sort. The trust emanating from development ends the violence of any type.”

Modi claimed that the BJP government in Chhattisgarh was working towards creating an “atmosphere of trust” and announced that a part of the earnings from the natural resources like minerals would be spent on the welfare of locals.

Besides, the prime minister said that Chhattisgarh has been given additional funds worth Rs 3,000 crore to build hospitals, schools, roads and toilets across the remote areas of the state.

The BJP leader also said that the central government was working towards increasing the income of tribals and those living in backward areas.

During the visit, Modi launched various developmental projects worth Rs 22,000 crore. He dedicated the modernized and expanded Bhilai Steel Plant, to the nation and launched an air service between Jagdalpur and Raipur.

Modi also criticised the previous UPA government at Centre for ignoring Chhattisgarh and its long-standing demand of an IIT.

“When the NDA government assumed office, Chhattisgarh long-standing demand for an IIT was fulfilled and IIT-Bhilai was established,” Modi told the public meeting, organised under the state government’s month-long Vikas Yatra.

(With PTI inputs)