Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party for its failure to contain Naxalism in Chhattisgarh, claiming that whenever the party comes to power at the Centre, Naxalites and terrorists become emboldened. Modi made these remarks during a rally in Surajpur district of Chhattisgarh, where voting was underway for the first phase of polls in the state.
Modi also took aim at Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, highlighting the alleged Mahadev betting app scam with the slogan “30 take kakka, khule aam satta” (30 per cent commission government, openly operating betting). Baghel, who is popularly referred to as ‘Kaka’ (uncle) in the state, faced scrutiny over this issue.
The Prime Minister accused the Congress of neglecting the interests of adivasis (tribals) in the country, suggesting that the party had left them to their fate. He asserted that, historically, when the Congress is in power, terrorists and Naxalites gain confidence, leading to incidents of bomb blasts and murders.
Modi emphasized the importance of security for everyone and urged the removal of the Congress party from every corner and polling booth. He cited recent instances of violence, including the abduction of BJP party workers and the killing of a party leader, as reasons to prioritize security over financial prosperity.
Regarding the Mahadev betting app scandal, the Prime Minister noted that the scam had gained notoriety both in India and abroad. He referenced a statement by a prominent individual involved in the scandal who claimed to have given a substantial bribe to Chief Minister Baghel.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come as the state of Chhattisgarh conducts assembly elections, with the first phase involving 20 out of the total 90 assembly seats. The issues of Naxalism, security, and alleged corruption have become central topics in the political discourse in the state.
