Raipur (Economy India): A group of 120 rehabilitated youth, who have renounced Maoist ideology and embraced the constitutional path, visited the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly on Thursday to gain first-hand exposure to India’s democratic functioning. The visit marked a significant step in their reintegration into the social mainstream and served as a powerful symbol of transformation from violence to democracy.
During the educational visit, the youth closely observed the proceedings of the Assembly and were introduced to the working of democratic institutions, legislative debate, and constitutional governance. For many participants, the experience proved inspiring and reaffirmed their decision to return to peaceful, law-abiding civic life.
Chief Minister Assures Dignity, Security, and Opportunity
The group met Vishnu Deo Sai at the Assembly premises, where the Chief Minister welcomed them warmly with a traditional “Jai Johar.” He described their return to the mainstream as a courageous and commendable decision, assuring them that the state government would accord special priority to their security, dignity, and rehabilitation.
“The government is continuously working to ensure that rehabilitated youth lead lives of dignity, self-reliance, and social respect,” the Chief Minister said. “Standing today in the temple of democracy after leaving the path of violence is proof that change is not only possible, but achievable.”
He encouraged the youth to actively pursue education, skill development, self-employment opportunities, and to benefit from various government welfare schemes aimed at inclusive growth.
From ‘Gun-tantra’ to ‘Gantantra’: Deputy CM
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma described the occasion as historic, stating that the government wholeheartedly welcomes those who have chosen democracy over armed ideology.
“Those who have abandoned ‘gun-tantra’ and returned to ‘gantantra’ are not only welcome but will be supported at every step,” Sharma said. He emphasized that constitutional governance remains the only sustainable path to peace, development, and prosperity, and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to providing employment, skill training, and social security to rehabilitated individuals.
Ministers and Legislators Extend Support
Several senior ministers and legislators interacted with the youth during the visit, including Finance Minister O.P. Choudhary, Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, School Education Minister Gajendra Yadav, Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal, Skill Development Minister Guru Khushwant Saheb, Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam, Revenue Minister Tank Ram Verma, and Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal. MLAs Kiran Dev and Sushant Shukla were also present.
All leaders reiterated that the government stands firmly with rehabilitated youth and will ensure sustained support for their social and economic integration.
Youth Pledge to Uphold Constitution
Sharing their experiences, the rehabilitated youth said witnessing democratic governance up close was deeply motivating. They pledged to contribute positively to society while remaining firmly within the framework of the Constitution and the rule of law.
The delegation comprises 66 men and 54 women, currently on a three-day educational tour in Raipur, during which they are being introduced to governance mechanisms, administrative systems, and development initiatives undertaken by the state.
(Economy India)
