New Delhi, Aug. 15 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hailed how the country has successfully uprooted naxalism from the country, remembering the sacrifice of thousands of martyred security personnel on the 80th Independence Day while addressing the nation on the iconic ramparts of Red Fort.

Saying how the Red Terror had kept several parts of the country "hostage" with the barrel of a gun, PM Modi highlighted how more than 3,500 security personnel were killed in various operations "in order to protect the people," showing a contrast on how India gained Independence 80 years ago, now the country is yet again from the grip of naxalism.

"Naxalism, Maoism destroyed the dreams of lakhs of youth. It stole the sons of numerous mothers...