TFP Bureau, Raipur; July 6, 2024: Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel voiced strong criticism regarding the state of passenger facilities in Chhattisgarh, the handling of the Mahadev app scandal, and other pressing issues during a discussion with journalists.
Baghel pointed out the poor state of passenger facilities in Chhattisgarh, highlighting that over 1,000 trains had been canceled while goods loading set new records. He condemned the central government for treating Chhattisgarh’s passengers as second-class citizens since the COVID-19 pandemic and urged the state government and its MPs to address the issue and restore passenger services.
On the topic of school children’s nutrition, Baghel expressed concern that payments for Ready-to-Eat meals had not been made, leaving children without proper nutrition. He criticized the state government’s failure to act on previous promises to transfer meal production to Self Help Groups, which could have started production by now.
Addressing the Mahadev app controversy, Baghel questioned why FIRs were only filed in Chhattisgarh, suggesting that the app operated freely in BJP-ruled states. He criticized the central government for not taking nationwide action to ban the app, despite repeated demands. Baghel accused the BJP of deflecting blame and not addressing the root of the problem.
Baghel also commented on factionalism within the BJP, noting that the simultaneous Jan Darshan programs by the Chief Minister and ministers indicated internal discord. He criticized the government for not returning investors’ money from chit fund companies like Sahara, despite promises made before elections.
Regarding the demand to declare the cow as the national animal, Baghel acknowledged that this issue, raised by Shankaracharya and supported by the Muslim community, stemmed from concerns over mob lynching incidents and the increasing violence perpetrated by groups like Bajrang Dal and Hindu Parishad.
Lastly, Baghel addressed the BJP’s failure to fill two vacant cabinet posts and the Deputy Speaker position in the Legislative Assembly, attributing it to internal factionalism and lack of decisive action.
Baghel’s statements highlighted several key issues facing Chhattisgarh and called for immediate action from the government and ruling party to address these concerns.
