Raipur: Political tensions escalated in Chhattisgarh after former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel claimed he had received an offer to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Responding sharply, state Forest Minister and senior BJP leader Kedar Kashyap dismissed the claim, saying neither Chhattisgarh nor the BJP needs Bhupesh Baghel.
Speaking to reporters, Kashyap accused Baghel of making baseless statements merely to stay in the news. “These remarks reflect political frustration after losing power. The BJP has no place for leaders facing serious allegations of corruption and administrative failure,” he said.
‘Congress Leaders Lack Moral Authority’: Kashyap on PDS Allegations
Reacting to former minister Amarjeet Bhagat’s allegations that Public Distribution System (PDS) shops are running empty, Kashyap said those who “looted the state during their tenure” have no moral right to question the system today. He alleged that cases are already registered against several Congress leaders and claimed the opposition is spreading misinformation to mislead the public.
Congress Accused of Soft Stance on Naxalism
Kashyap also launched a strong attack on the Congress over comments related to notorious Naxal commander Hidma. He alleged that the Congress has historically stood with Naxals and accused the party of hypocrisy over the Jhiram Valley massacre.
“The Congress sheds crocodile tears over Jhiram Valley, yet its own leaders admit they had evidence. This clearly points to internal factionalism within the party,” Kashyap claimed.
He further stated that Congress is uneasy with the rapid decline of Naxal influence in Bastar. “As Naxalism weakens, Congress’s political base is also shrinking. That’s why they are rattled,” he added.
Security Concerns of Bijapur MLA Dismissed
Addressing concerns raised about the security of a Bijapur legislator, Kashyap said no one is being stopped from traveling anywhere. He noted that the MLA had earlier visited Naxal-affected areas even without security, and raising such issues now—when Bastar is becoming increasingly Naxal-free—was “hard to understand.”
Swipe at Congress Over Assam Politics
Taking a dig at Congress leaders visiting Assam, Kashyap said BJP leaders are there for election campaigning. “Why Congress leaders are going there will become clear soon. What happened last time is known to everyone; what happens this time remains to be seen,” he remarked.
Government Highlights Healthcare Push in Bastar
On the issue of healthcare, Kashyap said the BJP-led government has established three new medical colleges in Bastar. He emphasized that the government is committed to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and expanding medical services to remote and interior regions.