What Led to the Suspension of 30 Congress MLAs in Chhattisgarh Assembly?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A dramatic scene unfolded in the Chhattisgarh Assembly as thirty Congress MLAs, including notable leaders, faced suspension over a heated debate on the critical shortage of DAP fertiliser. This incident sheds light on the ongoing agricultural crisis and the political tensions surrounding it.
Key Takeaways
- Thirty Congress MLAs suspended for protesting DAP shortage.
- Umesh Patel raised concerns during Question Hour.
- Agriculture Minister confirmed shortfall in DAP supply.
- Protests included slogans like “DAP dena padega”.
- Government promoting alternative fertilisers to mitigate impact.
Raipur, July 17 (NationPress) In a significant development, thirty Congress MLAs, including the Leader of Opposition in the Chhattisgarh Assembly, Charan Das Mahant, and former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, caused a major uproar concerning the shortage of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser in the state, resulting in their suspension for a day on Thursday.
The turmoil erupted during the Question Hour when senior Congress MLA Umesh Patel expressed apprehensions regarding the supply and distribution of DAP.
He challenged the government's allocation strategy, claiming that farmers were being overlooked while private traders benefitted.
Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam confirmed the deficit, noting that only 1.08 lakh metric tonnes had been delivered against a target of 3.10 lakh metric tonnes for this kharif season. He attributed the shortfall to global dynamics and promised that more shipments were anticipated soon.
The minister's mention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance in resolving the issue incited more protests from Congress members, who alleged that the government was ignoring farmers and facilitating black market operations.
Chants such as “DAP dena padega” (DAP fertiliser will have to be provided) and “Kisan Virodhi Sarkar Nahi Chalegi” (Anti-farmer government will not persist) reverberated through the Assembly as Congress MLAs surged into the well and resisted leaving despite Speaker Raman Singh's repeated requests.
The Speaker condemned the disruption, labeling it a violation of 25 years of parliamentary tradition. He adjourned the House twice before ultimately announcing the suspension of the protesting MLAs for the rest of the day.
Even after the suspension, Congress members continued their protest within the chamber, prompting further admonition from Home Minister Vijay Sharma, who cautioned against establishing a precedent of defiance.
Later, the Speaker concluded the day's proceedings.
This incident has spotlighted the ongoing fertiliser crisis in Chhattisgarh, where farmers have reported shortages and inflated prices in the open market.
The government insists it is coordinating with the Centre to ensure a stable supply and is advocating for alternative fertilisers, including nano DAP, to alleviate the impact.
As the monsoon session progresses, the suspension of Congress MLAs highlights the escalating political rift over agricultural policies and the pressing need to address rural hardship in the state.
Point of View
The suspension of the Congress MLAs in Chhattisgarh reflects a broader issue affecting agricultural policy and rural communities across India. The ongoing fertiliser crisis poses significant challenges, and it is crucial for the government to address these issues transparently. The voices of farmers must be prioritized to ensure sustainable agricultural practices and economic stability.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the Congress MLAs suspended?
The Congress MLAs were suspended due to their disruptive behavior during a discussion on the shortage of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser, which led to significant uproar in the Chhattisgarh Assembly.
What is the reason behind the fertiliser shortage?
The Agriculture Minister attributed the fertiliser shortage to global factors, noting that only a fraction of the required DAP had been supplied for the current kharif season.
What are the Congress MLAs demanding?
The Congress MLAs are demanding immediate action from the government to address the fertiliser shortage and ensure that farmers are not sidelined in favour of private traders.
How did the government respond to the protests?
The government acknowledged the shortage and mentioned that it is working with the Centre to stabilize supply while promoting alternative options like nano DAP.
What are the implications of this incident?
This incident highlights the deepening political divide over agricultural policy in Chhattisgarh and underscores the urgent need to address the challenges faced by farmers in the state.
