Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said that the Congress Government in Chhattisgarh has made three big announcements, including procurement of 20 quintal paddy and highlighted the government’s commitment to welfare and progress, while speaking to media in Capital. In response to a question regarding the ‘Vachan’ manifesto released by the Madhya Pradesh Congress, Baghel announced three key initiatives. Firstly, the State Government will procure 20 quintals of paddy, demonstrating its support for the agricultural community. Additionally, Baghel stated, “We will provide houses to 17 lakh families, whether the Government of India supports this initiative or not.” Notably, 7.5 lakh individuals have already received housing installments, and Priyanka Gandhi has pledged to extend this benefit to an additional 10 lakh people. Furthermore, Baghel confirmed the commencement of a caste census, a move aimed at enhancing social inclusivity.

 

Taking a dig at BJP’s response to these announcements, Baghel remarked, “But BJP is silent because it knows that it is not going to come to power.” He also humorously referenced the visits of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who often arrives accompanied by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), suggesting that Shah’s visits are consistently associated with the ED. Responding to former Chief Minister Dr Raman Singh’s request to reschedule the election date due to a festival, Baghel emphasised that the Election Commission should address such concerns. Regarding the Congress party’s complaint filed with the Chief Electoral Officer of Chhattisgarh against Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Baghel confirmed the submission of a memorandum alleging inflammatory statements while underscoring the significance of responsible behavior, especially for a Home Minister, and noted that such actions could provoke sentiments and lead to complaints.

 

To another query, Baghel criticised the BJP’s approach to the assembly polls in Chhattisgarh, asserting that the party is not seriously contending. He pointed out that Dr Raman Singh’s influence within the BJP was indicative of Aman Singh’s involvement, who is associated with Adani. Baghel raised concerns about Adani’s interest in Chhattisgarh’s mineral resources. When questioned about Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s visit to Chhattisgarh, Baghel made a pointed remark, suggesting that Sarma should prioritise his duties as a Hindu by symbolically shaving his head before engaging in discussions.