Opposition Stages Walkout in Chhattisgarh Assembly Over Minor Pregnancies in Porta Cabin School
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Raipur, March 16 (NationPress) A tumultuous session unfolded in the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly as Opposition members raised their voices during Zero Hour, reacting to alarming reports regarding the pregnancies of three minor girls connected to the Porta Cabin residential school in Gangalur, Bijapur district.
The issue ignited fierce protests, with legislators expressing deep concern over the safety and educational welfare of vulnerable children, particularly those from marginalized and tribal backgrounds.
The Opposition, spearheaded by prominent leaders such as former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and Leader of the Opposition Dr. Charan Das Mahant, moved for an adjournment motion to facilitate an in-depth discussion on this serious matter.
Bhupesh Baghel condemned the situation as highly troubling, insisting on a comprehensive debate within the House to tackle the exploitation of tribal girls within such institutions, a practice he claimed has a history of recurrence.
He accused the government of attempting to shield the officials responsible.
Dr. Charan Das Mahant pointed out that this incident is not an isolated occurrence but indicative of a wider social issue that necessitates accountability.
Bijapur MLA Vikram Mandavi and his colleagues echoed the demand for a detailed discussion.
MLA Sangita Sinha recalled a similar case from 2024 involving a pregnant girl, noting the lack of effective measures taken afterward.
Former minister MLA Kawasi Lakhma remarked that Porta Cabins were established to enhance education for underprivileged children, particularly in remote regions, yet recurring incidents jeopardize parental trust in sending their daughters to these facilities.
He questioned the operational safety of such establishments in light of these ongoing failures.
In response, School Education Minister Gajendra Yadav clarified that two of the students in 11th grade were not residents of the hostel but were enrolled at the 'Atmanand School' and traveled daily from home. The 12th grader had returned home voluntarily during the Diwali festival in 2025.
The Chair dismissed the adjournment motion following this explanation. Unhappy with the response, Opposition MLAs raised slogans, caused a disturbance, and ultimately staged a walkout from the House.
Congress MLA Umesh Patel criticized officials for making irresponsible statements, highlighting discrepancies where the Superintendent of Police denied any incident while the administration seemed to downplay the issue.
The Opposition insisted that strict actions be taken against negligent officials.
In a separate matter, MLA Purandar Mishra expressed concerns over low-quality gunny bags being utilized in the state, questioning the actions taken regarding reports of bags weighing 45 to 50 grams less than the required standards found in districts such as Janjgir, Champa, and Korba.
The Minister disclosed that 4,219 bales of paddy in those substandard bags were identified throughout the state, with claims submitted to the Jute Commissioner's office.
MLA Ajay Chandrakar inquired about the impact on farmers and the resolution of cases, to which Minister Dayal Das confirmed that claims had been resolved.
The Leader of the Opposition requested details about blacklisted mills, and the Minister assured that comprehensive information would be provided.