Chhattisgarh Assembly Erupts Over Jamboree Tender Controversy as Opposition Walks Out
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Raipur, March 11 (NationPress) The eighth day of the Chhattisgarh Assembly's Budget Session was marked by intense disruptions, accusations, and the Opposition's repeated walkouts. Congress member Umesh Patel questioned the alleged irregularities surrounding the Jamboree event.
He sought specifics regarding the tender process, including issuance and cancellation dates, alleging that work commenced prior to the tender announcements, implying that the awardees had been predetermined.
His comments sparked chaos in the Assembly, with Opposition members chanting slogans, accusing the government of corruption, and walking out in protest.
They also called for an investigation by the Legislative Party Committee. Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel intensified the discourse, connecting it to previous conflicts over the Speaker's position and asserting that multiple projects had started before tenders were officially released, highlighting evident irregularities.
He urged the government to establish a high-level committee for investigation.
In response to the allegations, Education Minister Gajendra Yadav clarified that tenders were issued twice—initially on December 10, subsequently canceled due to technical issues, and reissued on December 23 with relaxed conditions sanctioned by the National Scout Guide Council.
He emphasized that preliminary work was undertaken by the national team and dismissed the allegations of corruption. He further detailed that the School Education Minister acts as the Chairman of the Scout Guide Council, which remains intact, although the chairmanship concludes with the minister's resignation.
The Assembly also discussed long-overdue road and bridge projects in Raipur. Legislator Vikram Usendi criticized the delays in renovating bridges that are 60 years old and demanded updates on 11 unfinished projects.
Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao acknowledged these issues, stating that out of 134 sanctioned bridges, 114 are completed, while 20 are pending due to contractor withdrawals.
He assured that two new bridges have been approved, with one nearing completion.
During the Call Attention Motion, MLA Anuj Sharma raised environmental concerns regarding chemical waste contaminating groundwater.
Minister O.P. Chaudhary admitted that industries discharge acidic waste but pledged strict action against any detected irregularities, ensuring public health would remain a priority.
Another flashpoint emerged during Zero Hour when Bhupesh Baghel addressed death threats directed at MLA Rakesh Sen, deeming it a critical matter of member safety.
The Opposition demanded immediate clarification, shouted slogans, and executed another walkout. MLA Umesh Patel reiterated the call for a prompt government response.