TFP Bureau, Raipur; March 17, 2024: In a fiery press conference held at Rajiv Bhawan, the state Congress headquarters, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel lambasted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging a politically motivated move to tarnish his image ahead of the elections.
Baghel’s accusations stem from the recent FIR filed by the Economic Offenses Wing (EOW) against him in the Mahadev App case, which he claims is an attempt by the BJP to thwart his electoral prospects.
Addressing the media, Baghel stated that the BJP’s acknowledgment of its potential defeat in the Rajnandgaon parliamentary seat prompted the EOW to file a report against him. He accused the BJP of orchestrating a conspiracy to implicate him through central and state agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and EOW.
Denying any involvement in the Mahadev App case, Baghel emphasized that the FIR’s inclusion of his name was purely for political gain, as his tenure as Chief Minister had initiated the investigation into the app. He highlighted the measures taken during his administration to combat illegal activities associated with the app, including issuing Look Out Circulars and requesting its removal from Google Play Store.
Furthermore, Baghel questioned the BJP’s moral standing, citing allegations of corruption and electoral malpractice against the party. He criticized the BJP’s acceptance of electoral bonds and questioned the source of the party’s massive donations from companies under investigation by enforcement agencies.
Refuting the authenticity of statements used by the ED to implicate him, Baghel pointed out discrepancies in witness testimonies and highlighted connections between the accused individuals and prominent BJP figures.
Amidst these allegations, Baghel remained resolute, asserting that such tactics wouldn’t deter him from his political pursuits. He vowed to take all necessary legal and political actions to counter the BJP’s attempts to undermine him.
The press conference underscored the escalating political tensions in Chhattisgarh ahead of the elections, with both parties engaging in a battle of accusations and counter-accusations.
As the electoral drama unfolds, the fate of key players like Bhupesh Baghel and the broader political landscape of Chhattisgarh hangs in the balance, promising a contentious and closely watched electoral contest in the days to come.