Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Wednesday declared that the state had overcome a Naxal menace that persisted for nearly 35 years, crediting the courage and dedication of police personnel and security forces for the achievement.

Addressing the state-level Police Commemoration Day Parade 2026 at the Martyrs’ Memorial Ground in Bhopal, CM Dr Yadav paid tribute to personnel who had lost their lives in the line of duty and highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting their bereaved families.

The chief minister also identified cybercrime and drug trafficking as major challenges facing the police, expressing confidence that the force would tackle them effectively.

CM Credits Security Forces for Tackling Naxalism

Describing the end of the Naxal threat as a moment of pride, CM Dr Yadav said Madhya Pradesh had endured a difficult period marked by numerous challenges over several decades.

“Our brave and courageous soldiers made the state proud with their indomitable courage, valour and dedication,” he said.

The chief minister attributed the achievement to the efforts made under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

He also praised the Madhya Pradesh Police for their efficiency, saying their work had strengthened the state’s reputation.

Police Martyrs Remembered on October 21

Observing Police Commemoration Day, CM Dr Yadav honoured police officers and personnel who had sacrificed their lives while safeguarding national security, maintaining peace and upholding law and order.

He said the armed forces and police held a special place in India’s history and cultural traditions, describing the bearing of arms as a commitment to protecting society and the nation.

Referring to the national flag flying from Lal Chowk to the Red Fort, Yadav said it symbolised India’s self-respect, strength and the sacrifices of its security personnel.

Earlier, the chief minister took the ceremonial salute and laid a wreath at the Martyrs’ Altar. He paid homage to nine Madhya Pradesh Police personnel who died in the line of duty during the year.

Government Announces Support for Martyrs’ Families

CM Dr Yadav said the state government provides financial assistance to the families of police personnel killed while performing their duties.

He highlighted a decision under which 50 per cent of the assistance would go to the deceased personnel’s wife, while the remaining 50 per cent would be provided to their parents.

CM Dr Yadav paying tributes to fallen cops

Director General of Police Kailash Makwana also paid tribute to the fallen personnel, describing police service as a responsibility rooted in dedication and sacrifice.

Makwana noted that Madhya Pradesh Police officers had served across the country, from Kashmir to Tamil Nadu and from Goa to Nagaland. He said supporting the families of martyrs remained a moral responsibility of the police force.

Cybercrime and Drug Trafficking Pose Fresh Challenges

Looking ahead, CM Dr Yadav said the police must remain prepared to confront emerging threats, particularly cybercrime and drug trafficking.

He expressed confidence that personnel would continue to meet these challenges while protecting the country’s unity, integrity and internal security.

Police Commemoration Day is observed every year on October 21 in memory of 10 Central Reserve Police Force personnel killed in an ambush by Chinese troops at Ladakh’s Hot Spring area on October 21, 1959. The occasion honours police personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.