Independence Day: Tricolour to be unfurled 1st time at 14 Chhattisgarh villages

Inspector general (Bastar Range) Sundarraj P described the development as a “truly historic milestone” for Maoist violence hit region

Published on: Aug 14, 2025, 15:57:20 IST

By Ritesh Mishra

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The national flag will be unfurled for the first time at 14 remote villages in Chhattisgarh’s Left-wing insurgency-hit Bastar region on Independence Day on Friday, the state police said. Anti-Maoist operations have been intensified in Bastar since January.

Anti-Maoist operations have been intensified in Bastar since January. (ANI)

Inspector general (Bastar Range) Sundarraj P described the development as a “truly historic milestone” for the region. “What were once zones of fear and intimidation are now buzzing with preparations. Children are practising patriotic songs, elders are decorating the grounds, and entire communities are coming together in the spirit of freedom.”

He credited the transformation to the relentless efforts of security forces and the growing trust between the administration and the people. “...fear has replaced confidence, and the active involvement of villagers alongside our personnel reflects a deepening bond.”

Officials said national festivals were once impossible in Maoist strongholds. They added camps of security forces near these villages have instilled a sense of safety and hope among residents. Officials noted that Maoist attempts to mark national occasions with black flags have almost ended.

Units of the District Reserve Guard, Bastar Fighters, Special Task Force, and Central Armed Police Forces are carrying out intensive patrols and area domination exercises across Bastar to ensure peaceful celebrations.

Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai will hoist the national flag at Raipur’s Police Parade Ground and receive the guard of honour. Ministers and lawmakers will participate in events across the state amid tight security, particularly in Maoist-affected areas.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ritesh Mishra
Ritesh Mishra is the State Correspondent for Chhattisgarh with Hindustan Times. He reports on Maoism, internal security, politics, mining, governance, and major developments shaping the state. Based in Raipur, he has covered Chhattisgarh since 2016, reporting extensively from the Bastar region and other conflict-affected areas. With nearly two decades of experience in journalism, Ritesh has built a reputation for ground reporting from some of India's most challenging terrains. His coverage spans Left-Wing Extremism, counter-insurgency operations, elections, tribal affairs, environmental issues, infrastructure, mining, and socio-economic developments. He has reported on major security operations, policy initiatives, wildlife crime, and the changing dynamics of conflict and development in Central India. Before moving to Chhattisgarh, Ritesh spent eight years reporting from Madhya Pradesh, covering politics, administration, crime, development, and social issues. Throughout his career, he has reported on various forms of extremism in Central India, combining field reporting with in-depth analysis to produce accurate, balanced, and impactful journalism. Prior to joining Hindustan Times, Ritesh worked with The Pioneer and The Free Press Journal, where he covered a wide range of beats and honed his skills in political, investigative, and field reporting. His reporting is marked by exclusive stories, extensive fieldwork, and a commitment to factual, on-the-ground journalism that brings complex issues to a wider audience.Read More

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