Gadchiroli, Nov. 9 -- In a historic milestone after more than five decades of Naxalite violence, Gadchiroli district celebrated its first-ever Naxal-free Diwali, with the sound of firecrackers replacing gunfire and an atmosphere of fear giving way to peace and happiness.

The celebrations were organised across all 70 police stations, outposts and police assistance centres in the district on Sunday under the guidance of Superintendent of Police M. Ramesh, following the success of 'Operation Antim Prahar' launched by the Gadchiroli Police in May 2026, which dealt a decisive blow to Naxalite activities in the district.

As part of the initiative, SP M. Ramesh celebrated Diwali with villagers and police personnel at the remote Binagunda Police ...