Raipur, November 18, 2024 — Leader of Opposition in Chhattisgarh, Charan Das Mahant, launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Saye government, raising issues ranging from delayed paddy procurement to the alleged involvement of officials in the Mahadev betting app scandal. Mahant also commented on the upcoming Raipur South by-election, expressing confidence in Congress' victory.

Paddy Procurement Delay Sparks Criticism

Charan Das Mahant criticized the Saye government for delaying the start of paddy procurement. "During Congress rule, paddy procurement would begin from November 1. This year, it started as late as November 14, and even then, many centers were non-operational," Mahant stated.

He recounted his visit to five procurement centers in Sakti, where he found no weighing machines, officials, or equipment. "If procurement hasn’t started in the Leader of Opposition’s area, imagine the state of other regions," he quipped.

Mahadev Betting App Controversy

Speaking on the Mahadev betting app, Mahant alleged that officials, employees, and even police personnel are complicit. "If the BJP government is serious about shutting down the Mahadev app, it must act decisively and take strict action against those involved," he urged.

Law and Order Concerns

Mahant criticized the BJP government for its approach to law and order. He highlighted the recent arrest of Congress leader Devendra Yadav and alleged police inaction in cases like the murder of a police officer’s family in Surajpur. "The police seem more focused on extortion than on solving crimes," he said.

Praise for Anti-Naxal Efforts

Despite his criticism, Mahant acknowledged the Saye government's success in combating Naxalism in Chhattisgarh. "Significant progress has been made in addressing the Naxal issue, and the efforts have been recognized globally," he said, while also questioning the central government’s lack of action on violence in Mizoram.

DMF Fund Redistribution

Mahant called for redistributing District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds to other districts indirectly affected by mining activities. He argued that mining impacts areas beyond its immediate vicinity, warranting a broader allocation of resources.

Criticism of BJP’s Election Campaigns

Mahant took a swipe at BJP’s election strategies, labeling their slogans as misleading. Referring to slogans like "One Tree in Mother's Name," he pointed out the contradiction of widespread tree felling in Hasdeo. "Their words and actions are miles apart. They use nonsensical slogans to confuse the public for electoral gains," he said.

Confidence in Congress for Raipur South By-Election

On the Raipur South by-election, Mahant expressed optimism about Congress' prospects. "Congress has worked unitedly, and we are confident of winning," he asserted.

Mahant shared these remarks during a press interaction at a Diwali Milan event in Pendra. He also reiterated the need for the central government to address ongoing violence in Mizoram, while appreciating the strides made in tackling Naxalism in Chhattisgarh.