Bhupesh Baghel Criticizes Raipur Collector Over Alleged Misuse of Government Resources for RSS Event

Raipur: Former Chief Minister and Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel launched a sharp attack on the Raipur District Collector over an official order related to the five-day visit of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat in Chhattisgarh’s capital. Baghel accused the administration of misusing government resources for a non-governmental organization’s program and raised questions about the Collector’s impartiality.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Baghel wrote, “If the Collector has also taken RSS membership, it would be better for him to attend the morning shakha (assembly).” He questioned the Collector’s authority in issuing directives for the event, which included assigning duties of doctors and other officials.
Allegations of Administrative Misuse
Baghel emphasized that RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat holds no constitutional position, asserting, “The RSS is neither a registered organization nor does it have any official status. Despite this, BJP leaders tremble at the mention of his name. On what grounds is the Collector issuing orders for his program? How is the duty of doctors and other employees being assigned?”
He further accused the administration of bowing to political influence, stating that government systems and resources should not be misused to cater to non-governmental or political entities.
Demand for Immediate Revocation of Order
Baghel shared a copy of the order, which assigned emergency medical staff to the RSS office in Raipur during Bhagwat’s visit. He called for the immediate cancellation of the directive, alleging that it represented a clear misuse of power. “Instead of fulfilling their official responsibilities, officials appear to be offering guru dakshina (service to a guru). This must stop,” he remarked.
Bhagwat’s Visit and Political Implications
Mohan Bhagwat is currently on a five-day visit to Chhattisgarh, with programs scheduled from August 27 to 31. The visit has sparked political tensions, with Baghel accusing the BJP of leveraging government machinery for the RSS, which it claims is a cultural organization with no political affiliations.
The controversy has reignited debates over the role of the RSS in governance and its alleged influence over administrative processes. As political temperatures rise in Chhattisgarh, the opposition has called for accountability from both the state administration and BJP leaders.
BJP’s Response
While the BJP has not officially commented on Baghel’s allegations, party leaders have previously defended the RSS as a nationalist organization working for the betterment of society. However, the claims of administrative misuse are likely to remain a flashpoint in the state’s political discourse. Baghel’s strong criticism underscores the intensifying political rivalry in Chhattisgarh, as the state gears up for upcoming elections.