DEHRADUN: In a blow to Uttarakhands two-decade-long quest for a permanent capital, the state government has decided to lift the freeze zone designation from land earmarked for the Assembly and Secretariat, effectively shelving the 2023 master plan aimed at establishing a fixed seat of governance. Housing Secretary R. Meenakshi Sundaram confirmed the development, stating, A proposal for this will be prepared and brought before the Cabinet. The state has held Assembly sessions alternately in the temporary capital Dehradun and the summer capital Gairsain for 25 years. The freeze zone, intended to block development in areas reserved for key government infrastructure, was imposed in March 2023. A notification was issued by the Town and Country Planning Department, allowing five months to draft a Master Plan. However, more than two years later, the plan has not materialised. A government spokesperson said, Despite the stipulated five-month period, the Master Plan could not be finalised even after two years. The freeze had halted construction and development across a large stretch, from Raipur to Thano Road in the north, the main Haridwar Road in the south, east of the drain to Haridwar Road in the west (excluding the Ordnance Factory boundary), and from Bhopal Pani to Barasi Ground and Kali Mati village boundary in the east. Sources indicated that the Assembly and Secretariat proposal failed due to administrative inertia and practical hurdles. Adding to the delay, the land identified for the Assembly did not get final clearance from the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests. Although in-principle approval had been granted, the state government delayed submitting required details, leading to the approval being revoked. Local pressure also played a role in the government's decision to revoke the freeze. Shantanu, a resident of the affected zone, said, For two years, people in villages like Balawala, Nakraunda, Nathuwawala, Gullarghati, Harrawala, Kuanwala, and Ranjhawala have been unable to carry out construction on their own land, despite owning it. He added that he had appealed directly to the Chief Minister to lift the freeze. Environmental concerns further complicated the project. Environmentalist Dev Raghavendra told TNIE, The state government had previously decided to cut 2,155 trees for the proposed assembly building in Raipurs Bhopalpani area. The building was planned within approximately 60 hectares of reserved forest in Bhopalpani, which could have had a very adverse impact on the environment. The lifting of the freeze zone is now expected to offer relief to affected residents, but it also marks a major retreat from the states longstanding ambition to finalise a permanent capital.
Chhattisgarh: Raipur Man Slain In Pahalgam Terrorist Attack Cremated Amid Anti-Pak Sentiments
Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai, deputy CM, give shoulder to bier
Crackdown on Maoists on Chhattisgarh-Telangana border, 3 killed
Raipur: In a significant crackdown against Maoist insurgents, security forces in Chhattisgarh have launched a major operation in the Karregatta hills of Bijapur district. The operation has already resulted in the deaths of three Maoists, with their bodies recovered by the police. The officials have reported the presence of a large number of Maoists in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Crackdown on Maoists at Chhattisgarh-Telangana border leaves 3 dead
Raipur: In a significant crackdown against Maoist insurgents, security forces in Chhattisgarh have launched a major operation in the Karregatta hills of Bijapur district. The operation has already resulted in the deaths of three Maoists, with their bodies recovered by the police. The officials have reported the presence of a large number of Maoists in []
Three naxalites killed in massive anti-Maoist operation on Chhattisgarh-Telangana border
RAIPUR: Three Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security forces along the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border on Thursday, police said. The gunfight took place at a forest in Karegutta hills in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district along the inter-state border in the morning when a joint team of security forces was out on an anti-Naxal operation, a senior police official said. So far, bodies of three Naxalites have been recovered from the encounter site, and several other Maoists are also suspected to have been killed in the fierce gun battle, he said. The operation, one of biggest counter-insurgency actions launched in Bastar region, involved around 10,000 security personnel belonging to different units, including the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Bastar Fighters, Special Task Force (STF), all units of the state police, as well as the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and its elite Commando Battalions for Resolute Action (CoBRA), he said. The Telangana police were also assisting in the operation, the official said. The operation was launched on Monday based on inputs about the presence of senior cadres of battalion no.1, the strongest military formation of Maoists, and Telangana state committee of Maoists, and it will last for several days, he said. The area surrounded by the dense forests and series of hills is considered to be the base of Maoists' battalion no.1, he added.
RAIPUR: AIIMS Raipur did its first Swap Kidney Transplant also known as Kidney Paired Transplant (KPD) to become the first amongst all newer AIIMS and first government institute in Chhattisgarh to perform such critical transplant. The achievement reflects the institutions aim on innovative solutions for patients struggling with advanced Kidney disease, under the guidance of the ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is estimated that Swap Kidney Transplant led to a fifteen percent increase in the number of transplants. National Organisation and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) has recommended to all the states and union territories for its implementation of Swap donor transplantation and it has also decided to have a uniform one nation one swap transplant programme. In Swap transplant, a patient with renal failure who has a living kidney donor, but is unable to donate a kidney due incompatible Blood Group or HLA antibodies, receives a kidney transplant by swapping with another incompatible pair. This results in both the pair receiving successful kidney transplants. In Chhattisgarh, two End-Stage Renal Disease patients, aged 39 years and 41 years from Bilaspur, were on dialysis for three years. They were advised to undergo Kidney Transplant. Their wife came forward as Kidney Donor. However, the blood group of the wife did not match with their husband. While the first pair of husband and wife had blood group B+ and O+ blood group, the second pair had blood group O+ and B+. To overcome this challenge, the team at AIIMS Raipur arranged a swap transplant, wherein each donor donated her kidney to the other recipient, ensuring blood group compatibility and enabling successful transplantation.
Wedding Anniversary Turns Tragic As Raipur Businessman Killed In Pahalgam Attack
Raipur-based businessman Dinesh Mirania was celebrating his wedding anniversary with his family members during their vacation in Kashmir's Pahalgam, when the happy occasion turned into a tragedy as he was killed by terrorists in front of his family.
Kashmiri trader saves Chhattisgarh four families during Pahalgam terror attack
RAIPUR: A Kashmiri woollen clothes trader, Nazakat Ali, who visits Chhattisgarhs Chirmiri town every winter, heroically guided four families from the state to safety after they were caught in a sudden terror attack at the tourist site of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. The families, who were on a summer vacation, included three children among the 11 members. Shivansh Jain, Arvind Agrawal, Happy Wadhawan and Kuldeep Sthapak had left Chirmiri on 18 April and reached Pahalgam on 21 April. They were visiting a tourist spot in the valley when gunmen opened indiscriminate fire on a gathering of tourists. Owing to some apparent landslide, there was a traffic jam on the road. Tourists had gathered on both sides of the road. All of a sudden the firing started. Before anyone could realise whats happening, as the gunshots echoed across Baisaran field, the panicked tourists began running for life and screaming for help, said Jain, who was an eyewitness to the attack. He said all four families were safely guided away from the site by Nazakat Ali, who is well known to the Chirmiri residents. After reaching Pahalgam, we contacted Nazakat Ali, a local who is familiar with us. We all moved out, accompanying him to visit the tourist spots in and around Pahalgam. When the random firing created a shocking, chaotic situation, Ali acted with prompt sagacity and took us all to safety from the horrifying scene, said Happy Wadhawan. Though the families escaped unharmed, anxiety remains among relatives back in Chhattisgarh who are worried for their loved ones still in Kashmir. In a tragic turn of events, Dinesh Miraniya, a businessman from Raipurs Samta Colony, succumbed to critical bullet injuries sustained during the firing. He was in Kashmir celebrating his 20th wedding anniversary with his wife Neha and their two children. The anniversary was due on 24 April. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed his deep sorrow over Miraniyas demise and offered condolences to the bereaved family. Both Governor Ramen Deka and CM Sai strongly condemned the terror attack.
A Chhattisgarh resident died in the Pahalgam terror attack. Postmortem is complete, and the body will return via Delhi. Raipur Collector Gaurav Singh is coordinating with J-K administration and the victim's family. Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai confirmed the death of Dinesh Miraniya. Coffins arrived at Srinagar airport. Security forces launched search operations after the attack.
Man with nine failed marriages kills his 10th wife on suspicion of theft in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: A decaying body discovered from a pile of leaves in a forest of Chhattisgarhs Jashpur district has blown the lid off a disturbing pattern of domestic abuse by a local resident. Dhula Ram, a resident of Jashpurs Sulesa village who had been married nine times before, has been arrested for battering his tenth wife to death on suspicion of theft and dumping her body in the forest to cover up the crime. The incident came to light after locals noticed the stench of the decomposed body emanating from the bushes and alerted the cops about it. The police recovered the body from the spot. Ram was taken into custody and produced in a court following a preliminary investigation and later sent to jail. An official privy to the matter shared, The incident occurred in the Pandrapath village of Bagicha. Ram suspected his wife of stealing rice, cooking oil and a sari from a wedding they had recently attended. He confronted his wife about it. As the argument escalated, he killed her in a fit of rage. To conceal his crime, he dumped her body in a pile of dry leaves and bushes. The cops investigating the matter were astonished to learn that all nine women who had married him in the last 10 years had abandoned him over his abusive behaviour. The Jashpur police are yet to ascertain if all these failed relationships over the past one decade were indeed love marriages as claimed or just live-in partnerships. Interestingly, not a single one of his past nine marriages lasted more than six months. His abusive behaviour and pattern of domestic violence are being blamed for his failed and short-lived marriages. His history of cruelty and marital woes has left the cops wondering if there was any love in any of those relationships. The body has been sent for a post-mortem examination. Further probe is under way, and more details in the case are awaited.
Pahalgam terror attack: Raipur businessman killed on wedding anniversary, say neighbour
The Mirania family, assuming that the situation had improved in Jammu and Kashmir had decided to organise a religious function there
Businessman From Chhattisgarh's Raipur Killed In Pahalgam Terror Attack
A Raipur-based businessman was killed in a terror attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam town on Tuesday, officials said.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap booked for remarks on Brahmins
Raipur Police have registered an FIR against filmmaker Anurag Kashyap following a complaint by Pandit Neelkanth Tripathi of the Rashtriya Brahman Mahasangh (Bharat). The complaint alleges Kashyap made casteist remarks against Brahmins on social media, promoting enmity between groups and hurting religious sentiments.
CM Sai to unveil Chhattisgarhs industrial push at India Steel 2025 in Mumbai
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh is set to highlight its new industrial policy at the inaugural ceremony of India Steel 2025 in Mumbai, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the gathering via video conferencing on April 24 (Thursday). Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai will deliver a keynote address at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, highlighting the key features of the states industrial policy, available infrastructure for the steel sector, and future expansion plans. The CM will participate in two major national-level events focusing on the textile and steel industries, scheduled for April 23 and 24 in the countrys financial capital. At these forums, he will present Chhattisgarhs industrial vision and investment opportunities to leading industrialists and policy makers from across India. Both events will be held at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Goregaon. On Wednesday, CM Sai will take part in the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) Fab Show, which brings together key stakeholders from textile manufacturing, exports, and branding. He will showcase the special provisions and investment opportunities available for the textile sector under Chhattisgarhs revamped industrial policy. The state is looking to sign investment MoUs with major textile companies during the event. Later, a roundtable meeting with potential investors in the steel sector will be held. Discussions will cover topics such as special industrial clusters for the steel industry, logistics support, single-window clearances, and labour policies, said a state government spokesperson. Chhattisgarh will also set up its own pavilion at the Bombay Exhibition Centre to provide comprehensive information about its industrial infrastructure, investment potential, and policy supportdesigned to attract industrialists and entrepreneurs to the state. CM Sai will also address the media at the event venue in Mumbai on both days, the officer added.
3 held for murdering Bihar truck driver, burying dismembered body at brick kiln in Sambalpur
SAMBALPUR: Sambalpur police on Sunday arrested three persons in connection with the brutal murder of a truck driver whose dismembered skeletal remains were found buried at a brick kiln near Lodapada village in Jamankira earlier this month. Briefing the media, Sambapur SP Mukesh Bhamoo said on April 10, villagers of Lodapada spotted bones of a leg, still clad in trousers, protruding from a ditch at a local brick kiln. Subsequently, a local lodged a formal complaint with Jamankira police. During the course of investigation, police identified the deceased as Jahinder Yadav (31), a truck driver of Laxmipur village in Bihars Jamui district. Bhamoo said Yadavs murder was orchestrated by Muna Allam (26), a fellow truck driver of Bihar, with the help of Ganesh Jaiswal (48) of Bareipali in Sambalpur and Sangram Naik (43), owner of the brick factory where the body was buried. Yadav went missing on March 5 when he was en route from Raipur to West Bengal with a consignment of pig iron. Investigators found that Allam came in contact with Yadav around six months back. In the night on March 5, he came to know that Yadav was headed to West Bengal. Allam conspired with Jaiswal and an unidentified truck helper to steal Yadavs vehicle and take it to Naiks brick kiln from where they would have disposed of the iron. The accused also promised to pay Rs 50,000 to Naik for using his property in the crime. Allam along with Ganesh and the truck helper intercepted Yadav at Laxmidungri in Sambalpur. They drugged him by lacing his tea with sedatives. Once he lost consciousness, they took control of his truck and took it to the brick kiln. When Yadav gained his senses, the accused strangulated him to death. To eliminate evidence, they allegedly ran the truck over his body before burying him. When Yadav became untraceable, owner of his truck Sanjiv Pandey of Chhattisgarh approached the police on April 7. Yadavs truck - equipped with a GPS tracker - was traced to the mango yard of the brick factory owned by Naik. The SP said police have seized Yadavs truck, a car, motorcycle and five mobile phones believed to have been used in the crime. While Jaiswal was nabbed from UP, Allam and Naik were arrested from Rourkela and Jamankira respectively. They will be brought on remand for questioning. Another accused is absconding and a manhunt has been launched to nab him, he added.
BJP using Enforcement Directorate to target Congress over National Herald: DMK
CHENNAI: DMK, which is part of the INDIA bloc, on Sunday slammed BJP over the Enforcement Directorate (ED) chargesheeting senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case . DMK treasurer and parliamentary party leader TR Baalu accused BJP of misusing investigative agencies to target the Congress due to political vendetta, especially as the latter was rallying opposition against the saffron party on issues such as the Waqf Act amendment. On behalf of the DMK, I strongly condemn the EDs chargesheet against Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case, which is driven by the BJPs political vendetta, Baalu said in a statement. He said the recent AICC meeting in Gujarat had exposed BJPs anti-people policies and reinvigorated Congress cadres and this has unsettled BJP. Baalu also recalled that ED had conducted raids during a previous AICC session in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, and alleged that a similar pattern was now being repeated after the Gujarat meeting. Unable to take on the Congress politically, the BJP government is using ED and other agencies. This is not only disgusting but a shameful political vendetta unacceptable to anyone, he said.
Chhattisgarh government reshuffles 41 IAS, 20 IPS officers to boost governance efficiency
RAIPUR: The BJP-led Chhattisgarh government has carried out a major administrative reshuffle, transferring 41 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and 20 Indian Police Service (IPS) officers across the state to enhance governance efficiency. The state government announced the transfer list of IAS officers on Saturday night, followed by a list of IPS officers the next day as part of a major reshuffle aimed at strengthening the administrative machinery in key sectors by appointing experienced officials for improved outcomes. Among the IAS officers, the Vishnu Deo government has transferred 11 district collectors. The IPS transfer list includes two Range Inspectors General of Police (IGPs) and nine district Superintendents of Police (SPs). Pawan Deo, a 1992-batch IPS officer, has been appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director of the Chhattisgarh Police Housing Corporation. Previously, he held the position of Managing Director of the corporation. The two IGPs who were changed in the transfer are Ankit Garg (2004 batch) posted in Sarguja and 2007-batch IPS officer Deepak Kumar Jha. The latter succeeds Garg in Sarguja who has been shifted as IGP, SIB, state police headquarters.
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh police have filed an FIR against 'fake' doctor Dr N John Camm, alias Dr Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav, and the management of Apollo Hospital in Bilaspur concerning the 2006 death of former state Assembly Speaker Rajendra Prasad Shukla. The former Speaker's son Pradip Shukla had lodged a police complaint in Bilaspur on April 8 demanding a probe and action against those responsible for the death of his father. Sarkanda police station in Bilaspur registered a case against Dr Narendra Yadav and the private hospital management under Sections 420, 465, 466, 468, 471, 304, and 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The FIR also mentioned the death of patients at Mission Hospital in Damoh, Madhya Pradesh, where the same doctor had claimed to be a cardiologist, was arrested. 'Former Speaker was kept on a ventilator in the hospital ICU for 18 days after the heart surgery was performed on him by Dr Yadav. We conducted an inquiry after getting the complaint from Pradip Shukla and found the certificates of Dr Narendra as fake, said Siddharth Baghel, CSP (Sarkanda). He was neither registered with the Medical Council of India nor in Chhattisgarh Medical Council and still practicing as a cardiologist. We have filed the FIR against him and the Apollo hospital management under different Sections of IPC and will soon send our team for further action, He added. The Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO), Bilaspur, had reviewd a report of the 'fake' doctor's failures earlier this month. The report revealed that eight patients including the former Speaker had died due to surgeries performed by the accused in the district. The CMHO Dr Pramod Tiwari has served a notice to the Apollo Hospital management seeking information about the fake doctor regarding his service tenure in the hospital, his medical qualifications, registration with the Chhattisgarh Medical Council, how many cardiology-related surgeries he carried out, successful and failed operations by him there, copy of Apollo hospital appointment letter given to Dr Narendra and whether there was any any complaint lodged against him in the past.
RAIPUR: Abhishek Bhambi and Vinod Bhambi were accused of theft and was tortured by Chhotu Gurjar, the owner of the ice cream factory they worked and his partner Mukesh Sharma on April 15. Both Abhishek and Vinod, hailing from Bhilwara district in Rajasthan, were hired through a contractor to work at a Korba-based ice-cream factory. Both were stripped, beaten, given electric shocks and their nails were pulled out, a police official said. The video of the torment has gone viral on social media, showing a semi-nude man being beaten and given electric shocks. The two victims managed to escape to their native place in Bhilwara, where they lodged a complaint at the Gulabpura police station. The Rajasthan Police registered a zero FIR and forwarded the case to the Korba police for further action. The FIR was lodged at around 9 AM on Friday, and the Korba police swiftly acted and by noon arrested five accused seen in the video, Siddharth Tewari, Korba district police chief told TNIE. They will be produced before the court. Two of those arrested are said to be the factory owners, while others are their associates. One of the accused is a minor, he added. The Zero FIR can be filed in any police station irrespective of the place where the crime has been committed or the jurisdiction of the police station. The civil lines police station in Korba registered a case on Friday against Gurjar and Sharma. Besides the other sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to the crime, the Korba police also slapped a section on the ST-SC Prevention of Atrocities Act against the accused. According to the police official privy to the matter, one of the victims Abhishek Bhambhi, reportedly asked for Rs 20000 as an advance from his employer, citing the need for paying the loan instalment of his vehicle but was declined. Following the refusal, Abhishek expressed his decision to quit the job, which infuriated the accused owner.
33 Maoists say farewell to arms in Chhattisgarh; 17 carried cumulative bounty of Rs 49L
RAIPUR: At least 33 Naxalites, 17 of them carrying a cumulative bounty of Rs 49 lakh, surrendered before security forces in Chhattisgarhs Sukma district on Friday, police said. While 22 cadres, including nine women, turned themselves in before senior officials of the police and Central Reserve Police Forces (CRPF) earlier in the day, later 11 others, including two women, surrendered before police officials. According to the officials, the Maoists were inspired by the state governments Niyad Nellanar scheme and the Naxal Surrender Rehabilitation Policy 2025. The surrendered cadres cited disappointment with hollow and inhuman Maoist ideology and atrocities on local tribals, Sukma Superintendent of Police Kiran Chavan said. The surrendered Naxalites included Muchaki Joga (33) the deputy commander in PLGA (Peoples Liberation Guerrilla Army) and his wife Muchaki Jogi (28), both of whom carried a reward of Rs 8 lakh each. Two area committee members, Kikid Deve (30) and Dudhi Budhra (28), who carried a reward of Rs 5 lakh each, also renounced the Maoist doctrine. The official said seven surrendered cadres carried a bounty of Rs 2 lakh each, while another Naxalite carried a reward of Rs 50,000. The official said that under the new Chhattisgarh Naxal Surrender/Victim Relief and Rehabilitation Policy-2025, the state government has introduced Elvad Panchayat Yojna, which has a provision of sanctioning development works worth Rs 1 crore to village panchayats that facilitate the surrender of Naxalites active in their area and pass a resolution declaring themselves Maoist-free. The surrendered Naxalites were provided assistance of Rs 50,000 each, and they will be rehabilitated as per the policy. Forces recover rebels explosives, laptops Meanwhile, a joint team of security forces comprising District Reserve Guards and Indo-Tibetan Border Police personnel out on anti-Maoist campaign inflicted economic and strategic damage, recovering 11 laptops, `5 lakh in cash and explosives belonging to the Red rebels from the site of encounter in Narayanpur district about 400 km south of Raipur.
CGPSC case: CBI raids middlemen in Raipur, Mahasamund
Last November, the CBI had arrested former CGPSC chairman Taman Singh Sonwani and others, including Shravan Kumar Goyal, then Director of Shri Bajarang Power and Ispat Ltd.
22 Maoists including nine women renounce doctrine, surrender in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: Twenty-two Maoists including nine women surrendered on Friday to senior officials of the Sukma district police and CRPF in Bastar, realising the hollow, anti-development ideology of the banned outfit CPI (Maoist). Of the 22, twelve were carrying a cumulative bounty of Rs 40.5 lakh on their heads. These Maoists have been given an incentive of Rs 50000 each under the rehabilitation policy of the state government. The other facilities earmarked under the policy will also be provided to them, said the Bastar police. Officials said the surrendered Maoists were also inspired by the state governments scheme Niyad Nellanar (your own good village) pursuing various development works in remote and troubled villages besides the surrender and rehabilitation policy. The cadres who surrendered were active in the Maad (Chhattisgarh) and Nuapada (Odisha) divisions of the outlawed organisation, said Kiran Chouhan, Sukma district superintendent of police. The surrendered Naxalites included Muchaki Joga (33), deputy commander in PLGA (People's Liberation Guerrilla Army), and his wife Muchaki Jogi (28) both carrying a reward of Rs 8 lakh each. Two Area Committee Members Kikid Deve (30) and Dudhi Budhra (28), carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh each also renounced the Maoist doctrine. In another incident, a joint team of security forces comprising District Reserve Guards (DRG) and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) inflicted economic and strategic damage in an encounter with Maoists in Narayanpur district about 400 km south of Raipur on Friday. They recovered 11 laptops, Rs 5 lakh in cash and explosives belonging to the rebels from the encounter site. Security forces had launched a search operation from Padamkot base camp following specific inputs about the presence of senior cadres of the banned outfit in the forested terrain of Abhujmad area of Narayanpur, the police said. The gunfight continued for around three hours. With the forces gaining control of the situation, the Maoists escaped from the area leaving behind their belongings. The forces recovered 11 laptops, Rs 6 lakh cash, 30 kg explosive material, 20 litres of petrol and diesel, two cooker bombs, 130 cartridges of self-loading rifle (SLR), 25 cartridges of 12-bore rifles, 18 cartridges of .303 rifles and Maoist uniform, medicines, Maoist literature among other items from the encounter site, stated the press release issued by Bastar police. The action of the security forces also conveyed a clear message to Maoists that they are no longer safe in any area of Abhujmad, the statement added.
Chhattisgarh Man Kills Mother After She Denies Him Rs 200 To Purchase Puppy
A man allegedly bludgeoned his 70-year-old mother to death after she refused to give him Rs 200 to purchase a dog in Chhattisgarh's Raipur on Friday, police said.
Chhattisgarh man kills 70-year-old mother after she refuses to give him Rs 200 to buy dog
RAIPUR: A man allegedly bludgeoned his 70-year-old mother to death after she refused to give him Rs 200 to buy a dog in Chhattisgarh's Raipur on Friday, police said. The accused, Pradeep Dewangan (45), also allegedly injured his wife during the attack that occurred in Nageshwar Nagar under the Urla police station limits around 8 am, station house officer B L Chandrakar said. He said Dewangan was eager to purchase a puppy for Rs 800 and was falling short of Rs 200, which he sought from his mother, Ganeshi. The official said the accused, an e-rickshaw driver, has two sons and a daughter. Chandrakar said Dewangan bludgeoned the victim to death with a hammer after she refused to give him money, and he also assaulted his wife, Rameshwari. The accused managed to escape from the spot when his 15-year-old son intervened and alerted the neighbours about the attack, he said. The police reached the spot and rushed the two women to a hospital, where Ganeshi succumbed to injuries during treatment, he said. The official said efforts were on to nab the accused, and a case of murder has been registered against him.
Nine women among 22 Maoists surrender in Sukma, Chhattisgarh
Raipur: Security forces in Sukma district of Chhattisgarh have achieved a significant breakthrough with 22 Maoists, including nine women, surrendering Friday, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to combat Maoism, officials said. This operation, conducted deep within Sukmas forests, involved the Maad division and other hardcore Maoist factions. The surrendered individuals, collectively carrying []
Tendu leaf remuneration embezzlement: Chhattisgarh EOW-ACB arrests IFS officer
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh Economic Offences Wing and Anti-Corruption Bureau (EOW-ACB) has arrested Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Ashok Kumar Patel, a key accused in the alleged misappropriation of Rs 7 crore in tendu patta bonus disbursement. Patel was produced before a special court and remanded to EOW-ACB custody until April 23. He previously served as the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in the Sukma division of Bastar. Following the emergence of the alleged scam, the state government suspended him last month. Subsequently, the EOW-ACB conducted raids at around 25 locations linked to other accused individuals, including associates of the former Sukma DFO, and seized various incriminating materials. An FIR has been registered against Patel on charges of corruption. The investigation in the case is ongoing, said a senior EOW-ACB official. According to sources, substantial bonus amounts approved for eligible tribal beneficiaries were allegedly diverted through irregular transactions. Patel is accused of colluding with other department officials and local forest committees to misappropriate funds sanctioned as tendu patta bonuses in 2021 and 2022.
Odishas roads will match those in the US soon: Union road minister Gadkari
BHUBANESWAR: Union minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday asserted that the road infrastructure in Odisha will on par with those in the US soon. Launching highway projects worth Rs 4,173 crore for Odisha here, Gadkari said a state needs world-standard infrastructure like water, power, transport and communication to accelerate development. While road projects worth Rs 2 lakh crore are in various stages of implementation in Odisha, it will cross Rs 3 lakh crore in the next couple of years. The road infrastructure in Odisha will be on par with the US, he claimed. While announcing 13 new highway projects to be constructed in the state at an investment of Rs 9,000 crore, the minister also proposed the Odisha government to start flash charging-based air-conditioned electric bus service between Cuttack, Bhubaneswar and Puri to decongest national highways and ensure faster communication. Gadkari said, the flash-charging bus service will be piloted in Nagpur soon and after the pilot-phase, it can be introduced on the traffic heavy Cuttack-Puri stretch. The buses will have a capacity for 135 passengers and features like executive class chairs and air hostess like bus hostess. The fare will be 30 per cent less than that of diesel buses. The flash-charging technology allows it to be charged in just 30 seconds, he said. Among the major projects, the minister said, 241 km Odisha portion of the 464 km Raipur-Vizag economic corridor being built at a cost of Rs 20,000 crore will be completed by December this year and 150 km Ranchi-Sambalpur highway taken up at Rs 8,000 crore will be ready by December 2028. The much awaited 262 km Cuttack-Sambalpur NH-55 being built at a cost of Rs 5,000 crore will be completed by June, he said. Expand BBSR-Puri highway to eight-lane: CM to Gadkari The capital region ring road is awaiting the nod of the Union cabinet. The project from Rameswar in Khurda district to Tangi in Cuttack district will be executed with an investment of Rs 7,000 crore, he said. Apart from this, Gadkari said, 2,230 km of highways worth Rs 75,000 crore for which DPRs have already been prepared will be awarded soon. The projects include six-laning of Bhubaneswar-Puri highway at a cost of Rs 1,200 crore, four-laning of Kanaktora-Telebani NH-49 at Rs 3,500 crore, four-laning of Sohela-Sonepur at Rs 1,600 crore, six-laning of Puintola-Tangi at Rs 1,600 crore and four-laning of Athgarh-Angul highway at Rs 1,000 crore. He urged the state government to expedite land acquisition and forest clearances for these projects. The minister also sanctioned Rs 1,000 crore under CRF and urged the chief minister to submit proposals at the earliest. He also assured to lay the foundation stone of two bridges to connect Satapada with Krushnaprasad soon as promised during 2024 general elections. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi urged the minister to expand the proposed six-laning of Bhubaneswar-Puri highway to eight-lane with additional service roads and the two-lane coastal highway to four-lane.
Record procurement forces Chhattisgarh to auction surplus paddy, Opposition peeved
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh government on Thursday began the process of e-auction of surplus paddy after a record procurement of over 149 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) on the MSP in the kharif marketing year 2024-25. The state has decided to auction 35 LMT of rice in the open market which the opposition Congress said could lead to a major loss to the state exchequer. The auction will continue till April 23, said officials of the State Cooperative Marketing Federation that executes paddy procurement. Earlier, the BJP government had urged the Centre to increase the quantity of custom-milled rice from 70 LMT for the central pool The civil supplies corporation will procure 14.30 LMT rice under the state pool. The state will sell the surplus after the custom milling in the open market by inviting tenders. CMVishnu Deo Sai said, Paddy procurement remained a top priority of my government and the surplus paddy needs to be auctioned after the state supplied paddy to the central and state pools. Leader of opposition Charandas Mahant said, Under the double-engine government, the Centre should consider taking the surplus rice from Chhattisgarh in the central pool. The auction process might lead to a financial loss of Rs 7,000 cr to the state. Such a burden on the fiscal health will be unfortunate. Auction of surplus paddy also rocked the Assembly during the budget session last month. The state has paid Rs 46,277 crore online directly into the bank accounts of farmers against paddy procurement at the rate of Rs 3,100 per quintal. The paddy procurement process began on November 14 last year and carried out through cooperative societies till January 31 this year.
Power Grid Subsidiary Commissions Raipur-Dhamtari Transmission Project
Power Grid had acquired POWERGRID Raipur Pool Dhamtari Transmission through tariff based competitive bidding process.
14 held by Chhattisgarh police for betting via Mahadev app
Of the 14 arrested, six hail from Chhattisgarh, three from Jharkhand, two from Madhya Pradesh and one each from Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, Raipur Range Inspector General of Police Amresh Mishra
Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board serves notices to 400 'illegally' possessed properties
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board has served notices to wrongdoers who have 'illegally taken possession of its properties through deceitful registrations and others have not paid the due rents for years'. With the Waqf Amendment Act enforced and the recent survey by a 10-member team from the Centre on the Waqf properties in the state, the Board has staked a claim on its properties worth over Rs 500 crore and has served notices to over 400 people, including 78 persons in the capital, Raipur. Waqf properties cannot be sold or leased by anyone permanently. We found Waqf properties illegally registered through fictitious processes and ironically, those who sold such charitable endowment rooted in Islamic laws through registration couldn't be traced as their addresses are misleading in documents, Salim Raj, Chairman Waqf Board told TNIE. We have found registrations of Waqf properties of over Rs 500 crore, and the figure will rise further as our survey continues. The Board has served notices to over 400 people, he added. He has asked the concerned district collectors and the superintendents of police to cancel all such registrations that the Board cited as being done through fraudulent means. We have asked the collectors and the SPs to recover the illegally sold properties, cancel their registrations and resolve the issue exposed during the Boards survey within 21 days. Any misuse and encroachment of Waqf properties will not be allowed, affirmed Raj. Among those who were served notices were also people living on the Waqf properties leased out on rent, but they had not paid any amount for the past several years. There will now be a fresh agreement regarding rent fixed on all Waqf properties in accordance with approved norms of the Board and the guidelines of the collector, said S A Farooqi, CEO, State Waqf Board. Last week, a team from the Ministry of minority affairs was sent to Chhattisgarh to inspect the Waqf properties and their existing status on use, besides the questions, if any, related to dispute and encroachment. The team mostly looked into Waqf properties like graveyards, various Idgahs and dargahs. The Board estimated that Chhattisgarh has Waqf properties worth over Rs 5000 crore. In Chhattisgarh, non-Muslims, including the tribal, had not donated any land under Waqf. The entire evaluation of the Waqf properties is being carried out, including those lying vacant or encroached. There are people with vested interests using the Waqf properties as their personal assets, said Raj.
Two hardcore Naxalites killed in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: Two hardcore Naxalites, carrying a collective bounty of Rs 13 lakh, have been killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, police said on Wednesday. The gunfight took place on Tuesday evening in a forest of Kilam-Bargum villages along the border of Kondagaon and Narayanpur districts when a joint team of security personnel was out on an anti-Naxalite operation, Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj P said. Personnel belonging to the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Bastar Fighters, both units of the state police, from Kondagaon were involved in the operation, he said. So far, bodies of two Naxalites along with one AK-47 rifle and other weapons and explosives have been recovered from the spot, he said, adding the search operation was underway in the area. The killed Naxalites have been identified as Haldar, a dreaded Maoist commander and member of the east Bastar division of Maoists, and Rame, an area committee member, the official said. Haldar and Rame carried rewards of Rs 8 lakh and Rs 5 lakh, respectively, on their heads, he said. With the latest action, 140 Naxalites have been gunned down in separate encounters in the state so far this year. Of them, 123 were eliminated in the Bastar division comprising seven districts, including Narayanpur and Kondagaon.
13-year-old boy held for raping toddler in Chandigarh
In Raipur, a 13-year-old boy has been detained by police for allegedly raping a three-year-old girl, who is now in critical condition and receiving intensive care. The incident occurred when the boy lured the toddler, a neighbor, to an isolated location while her parents were napping.
Chattisgarh BJP MP expresses concern with CM over crime and traffic
RAIPUR: BJP Lok Sabha MP from Raipur Brijmohan Agrawal has written to Chattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai to fill the police forces existing vacancies immediately in light of growing concern over rising crime and traffic issues in the state capital, Raipur. He asked the chief minister to strengthen the law and order situation in the capital by promptly recruiting personnel against vacant posts and sanctioning additional strength in the police force deployed there. Understaffed police not just leads to long duty hours and stress among the personnel, affecting their proper functioning, but also makes life difficult for the 16 lakh population in the capital region, said Agrawal. He said that of the 3,805 sanctioned posts in the police department for Raipur district, 796 were vacant, and the current security ratio was one policeman for every 477 persons. And out of the sanctioned 2,738 posts for constables, only 2,007 have been deployed. There is a need to increase the strength of the force in view of frequent VIP movements and rising population, he pointed out. In response to the letter, the government stated it would consider the matters raised by the BJP MP.
Doctor kills his professor wife on suspicion of character, held with brother
The crime stemmed from suspicions over the character of the deceased and arguments between her and her husband, Dr Anil Rahule, who teaches at a private medical college in Raipur
Municipal Corporation packs old, sterilized dogs into a sterilization unit in Chandigarh
15 street dogs, mostly old, partially deaf and blind, and all sterilized, were cruelly picked and detained into a sterilizing facility run by the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh at Raipur Kalan, Makhan Majra.
Centres team inspects Waqf properties in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: Amid the visit of a 10-member team from Centre to carry out the surveys of the Waqf properties in the BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh, the chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai in response to contention of his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee asserted that the laws passed by the Parliament remain applicable across the country. After the Waqf (Amendment) Bill became a law last week, a team from the ministry of minority affairs has been sent to Chhattisgarh to inspect the Waqf properties seen as charitable endowment rooted in Islamic laws, its status besides the issues related to dispute and encroachment. The team has initially covered districts of Dhamtari, Mahasamund and Raipur. They are mostly looking into Waqf properties, incorporating graveyards, various Idgah and dargah. The team, during its survey, were seen marking the Waqf properties they visited as Used or Unused, a senior officer privy to the matter told TNIE. Chhattisgarh has Waqf properties worth over Rs 5000 crore. Since the creation of Chhattisgarh state in November 2000, neither a single land belonging to the tribal community has been taken as Waqf property nor has the state Waqf Board staked its claim or ownership on their premises or lands, said Salim Raj, Chairman, Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board. Parliament passes Waqf (Amendment) Bill after Rajya Sabha nod In Chhattisgarh, non-Muslims, including the tribal, had not donated any land under Waqf. The entire evaluation of the Waqf properties is being carried out, including those lying vacant or encroached. There are people with vested interests using the Waqf properties as their personal assets, Salim Raj added. Under the present regime, the Chhattisgarh Waqf Board has apparently been in action mode during the last three months, the Chairman has issued over 500 notices to those assuming responsibility of the Waqf properties. Salim Raj said the misuse and encroachment of Waqf properties will not be allowed. Now there will also be a fresh agreement regarding rent fixed on all Waqf properties in accordance to approved norms of the Board and the guidelines of the collector. The visiting team, accompanied by the chairman and secretary of the state Waqf Board interacted with committees of mosques, caretaker and the people of the Muslim community. Besides taking feedback, the team is apprising them about the Waqf (Amendment) Act-2025.
Raipur Diary: Nava Raipur one step closer to development
Nava Raipur one step closer to development In a step that could soon turn Nava Raipur into an IT hub, the countrys first Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based semiconductor manufacturing plant will be set up here. Commercial production is slated to begin in this plant in May 2026. Developed by Chennai-based Polymatech Electronics Limited with an investment of Rs 1,143 crore, the state-of-the-art facility spanning three lakh square feet will produce high-frequency GaN chips catering to advanced 5G and 6G telecommunications infrastructure. The plant aims to manufacture 10 billion chips annually by 2030 and create thousands of jobs. Sushasan Tihar for good governance The Chhattisgarh government led by CM Vishnu Deo Sai launched the Sushasan Tihar on April 8 across the state. The technology-driven campaign is aimed at ensuring good governance by addressing the issues being faced by residents. To that end, the government will hold Samadhan camps as part of the drive. This statewide campaign with a people-centric approach is being implemented in three phases. As part of the initiative, focus would be laid on a thorough review of public welfare schemes through feedback from beneficiaries. The campaign, which will conclude on May 31, is being monitored at the CM secretariat level. State saw top growth rate on GST collection Thanks to comprehensive reforms, innovation and a new work culture in the Commercial Tax Department, the state registered the highest annual growth of 18% on GST collections in the country in the year 202425, followed by Maharashtra (16 %) and Tamil Nadu (15 %). Besides, the state collected a revenue of `16,390 crore. Continuous monitoring and communication with traders helped improve compliance. Stressing transparency and public participation, the state now gears up to implement digital tracking, AI-based surveillance systems and advanced compliance mechanisms to maintain the pace of development.
Four dead, five injured as MUV overturns in Madhya Pradesh's Jhabua
The incident took place at 10 p.m. on April 11, near Bolasa village, some 48 km from the district headquarters, Raipuriya police State SHO J. R. Barde said
AIIMS Raipur Assistant Professor Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline for 21 Posts Before April 26
TheAll India Institute of Medical Sciences Raipur (AIIMS Raipur) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 21 Assistant Professor posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply Offline through the official AIIMS Raipur website. The last date to submit the application form is 26-04-2025.
Telangana CM Revanth: Expedite dry port land acquisition near RRR
HYDERABAD: The state government has decided to develop a dry port near the Regional Ring Road (RRR) to meet Telanganas logistics needs for the next 100 years. Being a landlocked state, Telangana aims to boost connectivity through this project. In addition, the government has proposed two new National Highways one connecting Hyderabad with Raipur, capital of Chhattisgarh, and another linking Hyderabad with Mancherial. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy reviewed the progress of the RRR, proposed highways and related infrastructure projects with officials on Friday. Following the Union Home Secretarys in-principle approval for the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) on the HyderabadVijayawada Greenfield Road project at a recent meeting in Delhi, the chief minister instructed officials to prioritise the project. Officials were directed to complete land acquisition for the northern section of the RRR and to finalise the DPR consultancy for the southern section at the earliest. The chief minister also asked officials to prepare and submit a proposal to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for the HyderabadRaipur highway. He gave similar directions for a proposed highway to Mancherial. Reviewing land acquisition challenges, Revanth Reddy was informed that the NHAI has not agreed to compensate for loss of standing crops in several areas. With the harvest season nearly over, he instructed officials to expedite land acquisition through meetings with farmers. He asked Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari to resolve acquisition issues by coordinating with respective district collectors. Revanth also emphasised the need to focus on expanding radial roads from the Outer Ring Road (ORR) to the RRR, extending up to the Telangana border.
Countrys First Ultra-Edge Tech-Based Semiconductor Plant to Come Up in Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday laid the foundation stone for the countrys first Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based semiconductor fabrication unit in Nava Raipur
RAIPUR: The Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) in Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur has taken a serious view about the report of failures of fake doctor in connection with his surgeries that led to the deaths of eight patients including a former Speaker of the state Assembly with heart ailments at a private hospital in the year 2006. Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr. Pramod Tiwari has issued a notice to Apollo Hospital management, seeking detailed information about the alleged fake doctor, Dr N John Camm (real name Dr. Narendra Yadav). The notice requests records of his tenure, medical qualifications, registration with the Chhattisgarh Medical Council, number of cardiology surgeries performed, details of successful and failed operations, a copy of his appointment letter, and any past complaints filed against him. Dr Narendra ((who took his name as UK-returned cardiologist Dr N John Camm), now under the police remand in Madhya Pradesh, was practicing in Bilaspur-based Apollo Hospital where the surgical operation of ex-Speaker of Chhattisgarh vidhan sabha Dr Rajendra Prasad Shukla in 2006. He died few days later. After the incident, the relatives of the ex-Speaker raised arguments leading to controversy, following which an inquiry was ordered. A committee was then constituted of cardiologist Dr Y S Dubey and the then state IMA president Dr Kiran S Devras to probe. The committee sought information about the degrees from Dr Narendra during questioning but he reportedly couldn't provide satisfactory documents. Despite repeated attempts, the public relation officer of Apollo Hospital Devesh Gopal didn't respond to phone calls and the messages sent to him seeking views on the CMHOs notice. Meanwhile the Bilaspur district Congress committee submitted a memorandum to the chief minister seeking lodging of an FIR against the then district CMHO, Apollo hospital group in Bilaspur and Dr Narendra demanding a thorough probe on how the deaths of the Assembly Speaker and others resulted after the surgeries by the 'fake' doctor.
CM Vishnu Deo Sai laid foundation stone for India's first GaN-based semiconductor plant in Raipur
In a significant step for India's semiconductor and electronics manufacturing landscape, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday laid the foundation stone for the countrys first ultra-edge technology-based Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based semiconductor fabrication unit in Nava Raipur. Developed by Polymatech Electronics Limited with an investment of Rs 1,143 crore, the state-of-the-art facility spanning 3 lakh sq ft will produce high-frequency GaN chips designed to operate between 5.925 GHz and 13.75 GHz (Nodes N102104), catering to advanced 5G and 6G telecommunications infrastructure and marking a major milestone in Indias technological journey, the officials in the know-how of the upcoming unit shared. During the event, managing director & CEO of Polymatech Electronics Ltd, Eswara Rao Nandam announced an additional investment of Rs 10,000 crore in Chhattisgarh. He said that commercial production from the plant will start from April-May 2026. CM Sai cited that the upcoming plant is going to be the identity of the new Chhattisgarh. Our aim is not only to attract investments but to ensure that youth from tribal, rural, and backward regions receive technical training and become active participants in Indias technological revolution, he said. The plant aims to manufacture 10 billion chips annually by 2030, with potential to generate thousands of direct jobs and lakhs of indirect employment opportunities. It directly aligns with the Government of Indias Make in India and Digital India initiatives by reducing dependency on imported semiconductors and promoting domestic innovation. Polymatech will handle the advanced packaging of these high-frequency chips at the Raipur facility, which will also serve as a hub for innovation in radio frequency (RF) systems, defense electronics, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and high-performance computing. India is set to play a big role in driving the global semiconductor industry, says PM Modi Gallium Nitride is globally recognized as a superior alternative to silicon in high-power, high-frequency applications, due to its efficiency, thermal performance, and durability. The establishment of this facility marks Indias entry into a high-value, strategic segment of the global semiconductor market. The Chhattisgarh government stated that it is committed not just on ease of doing business but also delivering speed of doing business and took swift action in setting up the upcoming facility at Nava Raipur.
NIT Raipur Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline for 01 Posts Before April 29
TheNational Institute of Technology Raipur (NIT Raipur) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 01 Junior Research Fellow posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply Offline through the official NIT Raipur website. The last date to submit the application form is 29-04-2025.
Chhattisgarh government implements new surrender, rehabilitation policy for Maoists
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh government on Thursday has formally implemented the Naxalite Surrender/Victim Relief and Rehabilitation Policy-2025, replacing the previous Chhattisgarh Naxalism Eradication Policy-2023. The Vishnu Deo Sai cabinet approved the new policy last month to encourage Maoists to surrender, reintegrate them into mainstream society and provide relief to victims of Naxal violence. According to the notification issued by the Home Department, the instruction has been placed to constitute a special committee under the chairmanship of a collector in every affected district for the effective implementation of the policy. The concerned district superintendent of police will be the secretary of the committee besides the divisional forest officer, chief executive officer of district panchayat, two officers nominated by the collector and representatives of the armed forces will also be included in the committee. A nodal officer will be appointed for each affected district and at the sub-divisional level to monitor the rehabilitation works. All the cases related to the victims since the formation of the Chhattisgarh state till now will be identified to extend them with relief plans. A special portal has been developed under the new policy. The information of every victim and surrendered cadre will be recorded with a unique ID. The state home department has directed the collectors to accomplish the relief and rehabilitation action within the specified time by following the prescribed guidelines of the policy. The new policy incorporates features like the surrendered Maoists (including other stakeholders in the conflict) will be eligible to receive enhanced financial assistance, rehabilitation support, education, self-employment opportunities, fast tracked cases and security. The government intends to ensure that those leaving violence behind giving up arms can build a stable and dignified life for themselves. CM Vishnu Deo Sai has emphasised that the state government is committed to completely eradicating Maoists, and this policy is a crucial step in that direction, said a government spokesperson.
From water crisis to party legacy: Former Rajasthan CM Raje's statements reignite speculations
JAIPUR: Strong remarks by former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje over the deepening drinking water crisis in parts of Rajasthan has pushed the central government to step in and seek an urgent report from the state government. Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil, in a social media post, stated, Vasundhara Rajes concern regarding the water crisis in Jhalawar has been taken seriously. A factual report has been sought from the Rajasthan government. Raje had earlier lashed out at government officials over the worsening water situation in several areas of Jhalawar district. During her visit to Raipur town, she reprimanded officers over the lack of action and strongly voiced the publics distress. Posting on Instagram, Raje wrote, Do only the officers feel thirsty? Does the public not feel the same? While the people suffer in this scorching summer due to lack of water, the officers appear indifferent. Water should reach the lips of the people, not remain confined to paper. The officers are asleep while the public cries. I will not let this continue. She also questioned the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission, under which the Prime Minister allocated Rs 42,000 crore for drinking water supply. Give an account of every rupee. What happened to Jhalawars share of the funds? The government is releasing money, but the officers are failing to implement the schemes properly. This is why the people of Rajasthan remain thirsty. If this is the situation in April, what will happen in June and July? she warned. Leader of Opposition Tikaram Julie also weighed in on the issue, commenting on social media, If the former Chief Minister herself feels helpless, imagine the plight of the common man. Legacy, Loyalty, and Emotion: Rajes Tribute to Rajmata Scindia In another event that drew attention, Raje unveiled a statue of her mother, Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia, in Jhalawar on Wednesday. During her emotional speech, she underscored her familys contributions to the Bharatiya Janata Party and remembered her mothers humility and service-driven politics. Raje recounted, After Atal Ji and Advani Ji became BJP presidents, both wanted Rajmata to take over as the national president. But she refused. In 1967, when she formed the first Jan Sangh government in Madhya Pradesh, there was demand to make her Chief Minister. She chose Govind Narayan Singh instead. Raje quoted her mother's word, I do not become the Chief Minister. I make them. Visibly emotional, Raje recalled a poignant moment before her mothers death: When BJP and its allies secured an absolute majority and it was decided that Atal Ji would become Prime Minister, Rajmata was unconscious due to illness. When Atal Ji and Advani Ji visited her in the hospital, she briefly regained consciousness and said, I was alive only for today. My last wish has been fulfilled. A few days later, she passed away. She added, Rajmata taught us that doing good work invites opposition, but one must stay committed and fearless. Political Circles Abuzz with Speculation Rajes recent statements have reignited political speculation, especially since her marginalisation within the party post-2023 Assembly elections. Bhajanlal Sharma, a first-time MLA, was chosen as Chief Minister over her, and during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, her role was limited to campaigning in her son Dushyant Singhs constituency. Political observers note that Raje was hopeful of her sons inclusion in the Union Cabineta development that did not materialise. Despite this, she maintained a low profile in recent months. Those close to Raje suggest that silence has never been her political style. Hence, any statement or appearance by her is seen as significant. Whether this resurgence in public and political discourse marks a more assertive phase for the veteran leader remains to be seen.
Chhattisgarh police bust illegal online inter-state cricket betting racket, 10 arrested in Delhi
RAIPUR: The Baloda bazar district police of Chhattisgarh, pursuing a vital clue, busted an interstate gang operating illegal online cricket betting worth multiple crores and arrested 10 people, including their major bookies from rented houses in Delhi. All 10 accused were part of an online IPL cricket betting syndicate. Those arrested are from Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh even and the hunt is on to nab their other accomplices. The arrested accused were also found to be using a CBTF panel that offers cricket betting tips. We got an initial vital clue from two arrested persons engaged in online cricket betting fraud in the Bhatapara city of Baloda Bazar. We carried out extensive work on the acquired information and later sent a police team to Delhi,said Vijay Agrawal, Baloda Bazar district police chief. Ten bookies were arrested from two different locations in the national capital. Eight laptops, 52 mobile handsets, cash, bank chequebooks, digital devices and other paraphernalia used in the gambling operation were recovered from their place of operation, he added. The police suspect the modules have possible links with other betting apps. With the help of bookies using online links, many punters engaged with online cricket betting were provided with login IDs and passwords. The accused were nabbed after the raid in Delhi and since the incriminating records and related evidence were earlier tracked down in Baloda bazar, the district police had arrested them, and further investigation will be carried out here, the SP added. The initial probe by the police has begun under Chhattisgarh Gambling Prohibition Act 2022 and 66 IT Act. There were several transactions with around Rs 8-10 lakh daily traced in their records recovered from the seized laptops, said Agrawal who is running an awareness campaign to bridge the cyber literacy gap and enable citizens to make informed choices. One of the reasons behind the crackdown on this online cricket betting racket is the Baloda Bazar cyber police personnel being familiarised with technological expertise required to intercept such crimes.
Maharashtra polls were won through 'fraud' like never before: Congress chief Kharge
AHMEDABAD: Alleging that the BJP won the Maharashtra assembly polls through a 'fraud' like never before , Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday made a strong pitch for having elections on ballot paper. Addressing the AICC session here, Kharge also accused the Modi government of 'selling off' government assets to benefit crony capitalists and finishing democracy slowly. The whole world is moving from EVMs to ballot paper but we are using EVMs. This is all fraud. They ask us to prove it. You have devised such techniques that benefit the ruling party and put the opposition at a disadvantage, Kharge said. But the youngsters of this country will rise and 'say we want ballot paper', he said in his inaugural address at the session being held here on the banks of the Sabarmati river. What happened in Maharashtra. We raised the issue everywhere, Rahul Gandhi raised the issue strongly. What kind of voter list they made? Maharashtra election was a fraud. The same thing happened in Haryana, the Congress president said. EVM EVM , EVM , , pic.twitter.com/wwlfib0w0o Congress (@INCIndia) April 9, 2025 Kharge pointed out that the BJP won 90 per cent of the seats and said this had never happened before. There has never been a fraud like the one that happened in Maharashtra polls, which was aimed at destroying democracy, Kharge charged. We will find out about it. The thief always gets caught. Our lawyers and leaders are working for it. We are trying that, he said. Kharge said in the last 11 years, the ruling party has been attacking the Constitution. Constitutional institutions and principles are being attacked and we have to fight to protect them, Kharge said. He alleged that the government ran Parliament's Budget session according to their whims and fancies. The Speaker took the Leader of Oposition's name but did not let him speak. This is shameful in a democracy. If you do not allow LoP to speak how will you let people to raise their voice, Kharge said. Maharashtra polls: ECI denies EVM discrepancies as Opposition continues to question election integrity Instead of debating issues of the people, the government conducted debate till late night for its agenda of communal polarisation, Kharge said in an apparent reference to the debate on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. He pointed out that the debate on Manipur took place at 4 am and he requested that it be held the next day but the government did not agree, Kharge said and alleged that it seems the government wants to hide something. Democracy is being finished slowly, slowly, slowly, Kharge alleged. He said the opposition was not allowed to raise in Parliament the issue of imposition of tariffs by the US. He said monopoly is being established with resources being handed to a few crony capitalists. Kharge also alleged that SC, ST and OBC reservation was being finished through privatization. If this continues, the Modi government and Modi will sell off the whole country and go, he alleged. This government is handing over resources to its crony capitalists friends that are even against national interests, he claimed. Kharge accused the BJP-RSS for raising 500 year-old issues to fan communalism. The RSS chief asked its people not to look for 'Shivlings' under mosques but they continue to do that and divide people. Prime Minister Modi starts a fire and the RSS people add fuel to it,he alleged. He also lashed out at the BJP for having an anti-Dalit mindset after its leader sprinkled Ganga water at a Ram temple in Rajasthan's Alwar to purify it following Congress' Tikaram Jully's participation in the consecration ceremony there. Kharge also made a strong pitch for a nationwide caste census and alleged that Prime Minister Modi uses OBC status for political gains but does not take steps for their welfare. The Congress president also slammed the government over increasing excise duty on petrol and diesel and hiking the price of LPG cylinder. Earlier, the Congress passed a condolence resolution, paying tributes to those Congress members who passed away after the Raipur session of February 2023. The party paid rich tributes to former prime minister Manmohan Singh who passed away last year in December. The Congress is holding its AICC session on the banks of the Sabarmati River here on Wednesday during which the party will present its social, political and economic views through at least two resolutions. The Ahmedabad Session, themed Nyaypath: Sankalp, Samarpan aur Sangharsh, is being attended by more than 1,700 elected and co-opted AICC members. This comes a day after an extended Congress Working Committee (CWC) met here to finalise the session's agenda and discuss the resolutions to be passed at length. Countering the BJP's high-pitched campaign of invoking nationalist figures to rally support, the Congress on Tuesday asserted its claim on the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India's first deputy prime minister, whose path it pledged to follow in the ideological war with the BJP-RSS. Violence, communalism pushing country into abyss of hatred: Cong targets BJP, RSS at CWC meet
Congress to witness massive organisational reshuffle: K C Venugopal
The Congress party is set for a significant organizational overhaul, as announced by K C Venugopal in Ahmedabad. The restructuring includes empowering district units and increasing representation for SCs/STs/OBCs beyond 50% at all party levels. The party is also considering reserving 50% of positions for women and youth, aligning with the Raipur declaration.
CM Vishnu Deo Sai launches Sushasan Tihar, aspiring to connect good governance with citizens
RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh government led by CM Vishnu Deo Sai launched Sushasan Tihar on April 8 across the State. The campaign aims to be accomplished in three phases to connect citizens with the feel of good governance and growth'. The statewide campaign with a people-centric approach intends to ensure timely resolution of problems, review of public welfare schemes with feedback from beneficiaries and strengthening public dialogue. We aim to ensure that the government is committed to establishing transparency, effectiveness and public-friendly administration at every level of governance. Under the Sushasan Tihar (Good Governance festival), the government administration will directly connect with the general public, listen to their issues, sort out their problems promptly and expedite development works, said CM Sai. Chhattisgarh government is the first one to take a decision to form a separate Good Governance and Convergence Department in July last year for the effective implementation of various welfare policies, addressing public issues and working to establish good governance. The chief minister has written a letter to all district collectors, issuing necessary guidelines regarding the conduct of Sushasan Tihar-2025 and making the festival performance-based and outcome-driven.' The government will extensively make use of information technology. The first phase of the programme will be held from April 8 to 11 when the applications will be received from the general public at gram panchayat and urban body offices daily. There will be 'Solution boxes' at these places where the people can write their problems and complaints and drop them in the box. A parallel system has also been evolved to receive the line applications in the exclusive portal created for the purpose. Information about each application with a given code will be available on the portal. Printed application forms in the prescribed format (including village-wise / urban body-wise code) will be made available to the people. In the second phase, the issues cited in the applications will be assessed and settled within a month. In the third phase, the government will organise Samadhan camps between 05 May to 31 May with a focus towards the resolution of problems and grievances. A block-level officer in each district will be in charge for each camp. To make the upcoming Tihar more organised and effective, detailed guidelines have been issued, and a portal is being created. Every district has been given the liberty to infuse innovation in the programme based on the needs and circumstances to make the festival more people-friendly and goal-oriented. Every application will be registered on the portal with an acknowledgement number.
RAIPUR: A six-year-old girl, who had gone missing at Om Nagar in Durg district of Chhattisgarh on Sunday, was raped and murdered and her body dumped in a car, the police said on Monday. Three suspects were initially detained and separately interrogated, following which one among them confessed to his crime, and he has been taken on remand on Monday, said the Durg police. On the occasion of the Navratri festival, the girl had gone to her relative for Kanya pujan (bhoj). A complaint about her missing was lodged by the police. After getting information about the body of the girl lying inside a car, we recovered it and detained the driver and car owner, who were among the three primary suspects and questioned them. The short autopsy report confirmed sexual assault. During the interrogation and other circumstantial evidence gathered by us, we arrived at the conclusion that the actual culprit is Somesh Yadav. He is the uncle of the girl and has confessed his crime, said Sukhnandan Rathor, additional superintendent of police (Durg). There were injury marks of bruising on her body. The Durg police will further collect additional physical evidence and carry out DNA tests of the criminal suspect and other samples gathered at the scene of the crime. The police ruled out any family dispute as the reason behind committing the crime. What led the uncle to carry out the crime at his place will be investigated, the ASP Durg added. Rathor said that the case is now being investigated under various sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to rape of a girl under twelve years of age, remove or concealing evidence related to a crime, murder among other related offence. The Durg police said to ensure trial be done of this heinous crime through fast track court and the criminal get punished. There were massive protests by the people in the area demanding to handover the prime accused to them and that a stringent punishment be meted out to him.
'Lon Varratu yielding consistent results as 26 more Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: An ongoing campaign appeal Lon Varratu (return to your home/village)by Chhattisgarh police in an edgy district of Dantewada is consistently yielding results ever since it was launched in 2020 by the then district police chief Abhishek Pallava. On Monday, 26 cadres of the outlawed CPI (Maoist), including three carrying awards on their heads, surrendered in response to the Lon Varratu drive of the Dantewada police. The district police has also released the list of the cadres who surrendered. Though a part of the states Maoist Surrender Rehabilitation Policy, the campaign has its own distinct approach. Often, it has been jointly carried out in association with the central paramilitary forces as the Dantewada police attempted to reach out to the misguided Maoists and their senior leaders through various means. They have also created awareness about the 'anti-people ideology' of the left-wing extremist group. Lon Varratu has struck an emotional chord among many Maoist cadres, inviting them to return to their roots. Several cadres who left the banned outfit later stated that they realised the hollow, anti-development ideology of the Maoists. Would 2025 be the beginning of the end for Maoists? Many times, its through the personal and individual approach of security personnel who use various means or channels to convey the message or reach out to the Maoist cadres, trying to convince them to return to the mainstream. So far 953 Maoist cadres, including 224 who carried rewards on their heads, have joined the mainstream to live a happy life. These are usually kept confidential for security reasons and to ensure that those engaged to extend help do not find themselves in any threatening situation. This drive is carried out covertly, Govind Diwan, deputy superintendent of police (Bastar Fighters) in Dantewada, told The New Indian Express . Dantewada police said that the surrendered Maoists will get the initial financial incentive of Rs 50,000 each. Besides, if the surrendered cadres wish to undergo skill training or set up a small business, they will receive further financial support and will be provided with free housing and healthcare, and farm land among other amenities under the new Maoist Surrender Rehabilitation Policy. During his visit to Dantewada last Saturday to attend the closing ceremony of the Bastar Pandum tribal festival, Union Home Minister Amit Shah conveyed to the Maoists that those who relinquish violence can join the mainstream but others who continue to engage in confrontation will face strong action from the security forces. In the first three months of 2025, as many as 521 Maoists have surrendered.
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30 injured as vehicle ferrying people to Amit Shahs Bastar event overturns in Dantewada
RAIPUR: At least 30 people were injured, six of them critically, after a pickup vehicle overturned while ferrying attendees to Union Home Minister Amit Shahs event in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh, on Saturday, officials said. The accident took place near Palnar under the Aranpur police station limits when the people from Potali were traveling in a vehicle to the venue where the closing ceremony of the Bastar Pandum festival was scheduled to be held at a school ground. The injured were taken to the Dantewada district hospital. According to the district police, the driver of the vehicle lost control and the vehicle overturned. The exact cause of the mishap would be known after the probe. The health staff immediately swung into action taking the injured to the hospital. Around half-dozen were stated to be serious, the police said.
Next Chaitra Navratri, Bastar will be free from Red terror: Amit Shah
RAIPUR: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said Bastar would be completely free from Maoist violence by the next Chaitra Navratri, reiterating the Centres resolve to eliminate left-wing extremism. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Bastar Pandum festival in Dantewada on Ashtami, Shah stated, Bastar will no longer be known for Naxalism but for its rich folk traditions, tribal heritage, culture and progress. Bastar, where Lord Ram spent a significant part of his exile, will now walk the path of peace, guided by his ideals, not by fear and violence. Bastar Pandum witnessed the participation of around 27,000 youths from seven adjoining states, in addition to Chhattisgarhs Bastar region. The grand event showcased the unique tribal culture and traditions of Chhattisgarhs communities across seven vibrant categories. Competitions, which began on 12 March, concluded on 5 April with a series of events held in Dantewada. The festival featured contests centred on tribal dance, songs, theatre, musical instruments, traditional attire and jewellery, craftsmanship, and tribal cuisine and beverages. Vehicle ferrying people to Amit Shah's Dantewada event overturns; 30 injured, 6 critical From next year, the tribal communities from across India will participate in this grand festival showcasing the diversity of tribal art and culture. The era of those who exploited, deceived, and terrorised tribal populations for decades is now over. Bastar is moving ahead on the road to development, the home minister said. This marked Shahs fourth visit to Bastar in the last 15 months, making him the only Union Home Minister to have visited the conflict-ridden region five times. In the first three months of 2025, 521 Maoists have surrendered. A total of 881 laid down arms in 2024. Those who surrendered will join the mainstream while others continuing with arms will face the security forces. Whatsoever, by next March we will free the entire country from the Red terror. For development, there is no need for guns and violence but the use of computers and pen, Shah added. While Shah was speaking in Bastar, as many as 86 cadres of the banned outfit surrendered in the neighbouring state of Telangana. The home minister assured that both the Centre and the state government would work together to transform Bastar into a hub of peace, culture and prosperity. Bastars new identity will not be fear but of pride, he said. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, also present at the event, said the Bastar Pandum symbolised Prime Minister Narendra Modis Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat vision. Recently organised Bastar Olympics that saw participation of 1.65 lakh youths and now the Bastar Pandum evidently suggest that the people of Bastar wish to connect with the mainstream development and get rid of the Naxalism, he said. Later in the day, Shah was scheduled to chair a high-level meeting in Raipur with senior officials from both the Centre and the state to review the ongoing strategy and operational assessments against left-wing extremism.
Centre approves multi-tracking rail projects across Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Odisha
NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet at its meeting on Wednesday gave its nod to four railway projects worth Rs 18,658 crore covering multi-tracking 680 route Kms in three Naxal affected states of Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Odisha, Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting (I&B) Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Friday. The Minister further informed that at the meeting of the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi it was also decided to approve second phase of the Vibrant Villages Programme worth Rs 6,839 crore covering the states having land borders with neighbouring countries including Pakistan, Nepal, China, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Bhutan. Vaishnaw, while briefing media about the decisions with regard to Railways, said, the four projects covering 15 districts in three states - Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh - will increase the existing network of the transport monolith by about 1,247 km. He said, these projects include the Sambalpur-Jarapda 3rd and 4th Lines and the Jharsuguda-Sason 3rd and 4th Lines in Odisha, the Kharsia-Naya Raipur-Parmalkasa 5th and 6th Lines in Chhattisgarh, and the Gondia-Balharshah doubling of rail tracks in Maharashtra. The Minister said the augmented line capacity will improve mobility, providing enhanced efficiency and service reliability for the Indian Railways. These multi-tracking proposals will ease operations and reduce congestion, providing the much-required infrastructural development on the busiest sections across the Indian Railway networks, he said. With these projects, 19 new stations will be constructed, enhancing connectivity to two Aspirational Districts (Gadchiroli in Maharashtra and Rajnandgaon in Chhattisgarh). The multi-tracking project will enhance connectivity to approximately 3,350 villages and about 47.25 lakh people, Vaishnaw said, adding that these would further result in additional freight traffic of magnitude 88.77 MTPA (million tonnes per annum). The Railways, one of the most environment-friendly and energy-efficient mode of transportation, with these projects will help both in achieving climate goals and minimising the logistics cost of the country by reduce oil import (95 crore litres) and lower CO2 emissions (477 crore Kg), which is equivalent to the planting of 19 crore trees, the Minister said. Meanwhile, as part of the Vibrant Villages Programme 2.0, the government aims to further achieve its vision of safe and secure land borders. The programme would help in the comprehensive development of the villages located in the blocks abutting international land borders (ILBs), other than the northern border (with China) already covered under VVP-I, the Minister said. With a total outlay of Rs 6,839 crore, the programme shall be implemented in select strategic villages in the States/UTs of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, J&K (UT), Ladakh (UT), Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal till the financial year 2028-29, Vaishnaw said, adding that the interventions would be border-specific, state and village specific, based on Village Action Plans (VAP) prepared in a collaborative approach. The programme shall provide funds for infrastructure development within the village or a cluster of villages, value chain development (through cooperatives, SHGs, etc), border specific outreach activity, education infrastructure like SMART classes, development of tourism circuits and works/projects to create diverse & sustainable livelihood opportunities in the border areas, the MHA, the nodal agency to implement the programme, said in a statement.
Chhattisgarh: Shah may unveil new surrendered Naxal rehab policy of Chhattisgarh
Mr. Shah is scheduled to review the security situation in Leftwing insurgency-hit Bastar at Raipur on Saturday evening before winding up his tour to Chhattisgarh, sources said.
Cgarh : Shah may unveil new surrendered Naxal rehab policy of Cgarh
Mr. Shah is scheduled to review the security situation in Leftwing insurgency-hit Bastar at Raipur on Saturday evening before winding up his tour to Chhattisgarh, sources said.
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BJP MP-led company denounces 'heavy-handed approach' of Chhattisgarh government
RAIPUR: Jindal Power Limited (JPL) has denounced the heavy-handed approach of officials, in the BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh, which it claims, is obstructing steady coal production. Interestingly, Jindal Power Limited is part of the Jindal Group, headed by BJP MP Naveen Jindal. The company complained to the states chief secretary, highlighting concerns over an alleged heavy-handed approach by officials, which it claims is obstructing steady coal production. The award to JPL had been presented by the union minister for coal and mines on March 27 in New Delhi. While we are being recognised by the Central government as the highest revenue contributor in commercial coal mining and have been appreciated for our continued efforts and proven record of maximising production from our mines, we have been recently penalised for a perceived shortfall in production and multiple unwarranted issues are being raised by the local authorities of the state government, causing disruption in production and the entire value chain of the business, JPL's letter stated. JPL also underlined that it currently produces approximately 90 per cent of the total commercial coal in the country. The company has now sought the intervention of the chief secretary to resolve the complaint. However, the states Department of Geology and Mining has maintained that its actions are in line with regulations. The department has to go along with the statute framed by the Government of India. The state only ensures that the entire specifications mentioned in the statute are complied with. There might be some lacuna or lapses, even if inadvertent, on the part of any organisation, and that needs to be addressed. We know all business stakeholders are vital for the economy of the state and the country, said Anurag Diwan, joint director of the department, speaking to The New Indian Express .
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50 Reds surrender before PM Modi's Chhattisgarh visit
Fifty Maoists, including 14 with hefty bounties, surrendered in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, just before PM Modi's arrival in Raipur. This mass surrender follows the killing of 17 Maoists by security forces in Sukma, raising the year's toll to 134. The surrendered rebels cited disillusionment with Maoist ideologies and exploitation by senior cadres.
PM Modi launches development projects in Chhattisgarh, highlights BJP's achievements
RAIPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extending compliment on silver jubilee year of Chhattisgarh expressed delight over the trust reposed by the people on the BJPs efforts leading to swiftly achieving the pledges under the Modi Ki Guarantee in the state. PM Modi laid the foundation stones and inaugurated multiple development projects of over Rs 33,700 crore in sectors related to road, railway, oil and natural gas, energy, education and housing at an event held at Mohbatta village of Bilaspur district on Sunday Addressing a public rally during his first official visit to the state after the BJP returned to power in Chhattisgarh in December 2023, he appreciated that Chhattisgarh is witnessing a rapid progress in all sectors under the BJP regime. - pic.twitter.com/NtHauV2s6L Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 30, 2025 Hum Ne Banaya Hai, Hum Hi Savarenge (We have created-Chhattisgarh, we only will enrich it). The laying of foundation stones, inauguration of various projects today in the state is a part of the same pledge. The separate Chhattisgarh was created because the benefit of development failed to reach the people and the state. During the Congress regime the development was missing and whatever seen happening were indulged in corruption. Congress was never concerned about common people. Its the BJP that is bringing the development schemes to every village of Chhattisgarh, Modi asserted. He said having a budget is not enough, good intentions are also essential. The tribal region remained devoid of development for decades. Despite the huge availability of coal, the power scenario was pathetic during the Congress regime. We are establishing new power houses besides a major focus on solar energy including flagship scheme PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. Over 2 lakh people in Chhattisgarh have already registered for it. The gas pipeline programme will enable natural gas reach conveniently to consumers at reasonable prices, he said. Modi criticicised the Congress for policies that led to the proliferation of the Maoist menace in Chhattisgarh and other states. The Maoists flourished and sustained in those areas that lagged in development. The grand old party ruled for 60 years had declared such regions as backward and turned away from its responsibility, he asserted. He further added that under the BJP's double-engine government, Chhattisgarh is witnessing positive changes ands a new era of peace is being seen in the Maoist-affected regions. During the occasion, the Griha Pravesh of 3 lakh beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G) was held. BJP government not just built houses but also enriched the lives of beneficiaries who live there, PM averred. CM Vishnu Deo Sai called PM Modi's visit as a historical day as Chhattisgarh is going to play a significant role in the prime minister's vision of making India into a developed nation in 2047.
Modi lays foundation stone and inaugurates Rs 33,700 crore projects in Chhattisgarh
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 33,700 crore in Chhattisgarh. These projects span various sectors, including the NTPC's Sipat Super Thermal Power Project valued at Rs 9,790 crore. Modi also flagged off the MEMU train service in the Abhanpur-Raipur section.
Naxal surrenders double in first quarter; CRPF intelligence gets active
NEW DELHI/RAIPUR, Mar 30: Surrenders by Naxalites in the first quarter of 2025 have more than doubled from the comparative period last year, with the CRPF activating its intelligence wing to persuade these cadres to lay down arms in the toughest battle zone of Chhattisgarh. A directive issued by the paramilitary force to its snooping operations unit has assigned the task of identifying members of the Jan militia and Revolutionary Peoples Committees (RPC) as well as their supporters, with [] The post Naxal surrenders double in first quarter; CRPF intelligence gets active appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Raipur Diary: PM Modi's message conveyed ahead of first visit
PMs message conveyed ahead of first visit Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Chhattisgarh on March 30 for his first official visit to the state after BJP formed government in December 2023. Sources said, ahead of the PMs arrival, a firm message has been conveyed to the state government to focus on result-oriented and responsible administration instead of harping on about Modi Ki Guarantee schemes. The PMs visit, coinciding with the Hindu New Year, will see inauguration & foundation-laying of various development projects worth `33,700 crore. The trip to Bilaspur, where the PM will address a public rally, is set to bring a major fillip to the states infrastructure, energy, housing and education sectors. JPL recognised for coal mining achievement The Jindal Power Limited (JPL) that produces approximately 90% of Indias total commercial coal has also achieved a notable achievement in Chhattisgarh, contributing the highest revenue for the state in commercial coal mining. JPL was recognised by the Centre on March 27 as the highest revenue contributor in commercial coal mining. The organisation has also flagged unwarranted issues raised by local authorities, bringing down production and disrupting the value chain of the business. JPL appealed to the chief secretary for resolution of long pending issues pertaining to their coal blocks to enable seamless production to meet demands. President praises high standards of Assembly President Droupadi Murmu praised the Chhattisgarh Vidhan Sabha for establishing high standards of democratic traditions and its track record of not using force by Marshals in the 25 years of statehood. Murmu regarded the Assembly as an ideal example of House conduct, one that should be emulated by other states. The third President to address the state Assembly, Murmu recognised immense potential in Chhattisgarhs rich natural and mineral resources, but felt the onus lay on policy makers to strike a balance between nature and development. Also, the state will rid itself of Maoists, Murmu noted.
Jawan injured in blast as IED planted by Naxalites goes off in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: A Bastar Fighters jawan was injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by Naxalites went off in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district on Friday, police said. The incident took place around 10 am near Bedmakoti village under Kohkameta police station limits when a joint team of security forces was out on an area domination operation, a senior official said. Personnel belonging to the Indo Tibetan Border Police, and District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Bastar Fighters, both state police units, were involved in the operation launched from Kutul security camp towards a newly established camp in Bedmakoti, he said. When the patrolling team was cordoning off the area, a Bastar Fighters jawan inadvertently stepped on the pressure IED, which exploded and left him injured, the senior police official said. The injured jawan was shifted to the Narayanpur district hospital. He would be referred to a higher center for medical care if required, the official added. Maoists often plant IEDs along the road and dirt tracks in the forest to target security personnel during patrolling in the interior pockets of the state's Bastar region, comprising seven districts including Narayanpur. Many civilians have fallen prey to such traps in the past in the tribal-dominated region, police said.
RAIPUR: A day after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted simultaneous raids at 60 locations in connection with the multi-crore Mahadev Online App betting scam, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of protecting the apps promoters. On my direction, the first FIR was lodged in March 2022. Later, 74 cases were registered, over 200 people were arrested, and more than 2,000 bank accounts were seized. The CBI raid is like nabbing the whistleblower, Baghel alleged. The CBI raids were carried out to get the script of Prime Minister Narendra Modis speech, which he will deliver on March 30 during his visit to Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh. The promoters of the app are receiving patronage from PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Except for handing over the case to the CBI, the state BJP government has not taken any concrete action against the Mahadev App, he added. Addressing the media at Rajiv Bhawan in Raipur, the ex-CM and Patan MLA claimed he was being targeted despite his government having exposed the scam. He accused the Enforcement Directorate (ED) of misleading the public about the arrests of Saurabh Chandrakar and Ravi Uppal. CBI raids former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel's residence in connection with Mahadev betting app case Both were rather seen attending a devotional gathering addressed by preacher Pradip Mishra, he said, further alleging that the BJP had no intention of taking action against the Mahadev App. Since the Congress government took action, the CBI raids were carried out against us, he added. Baghel, who is also the All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary, questioned why no significant police action had been taken against the illegal betting app after the BJP returned to power in December 2023. This clearly indicates the state government, too, has given patronage, he alleged. Ex-Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel named in FIR in Mahadev betting app case However, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai countered the claims, asserting that the probe was now under the CBIs jurisdiction. Everyone knows how the youth of Chhattisgarh got addicted to betting, which ruined their lives. There should be action against those found guilty, and no one will be spared. Its not about anyone being close to Congress or the BJP, Sai stated. Baghel also pointed out that the ED had conducted raids two weeks ago, questioning what more the CBI could unearth. He further claimed that officers who had acted against the Mahadev betting app under his government were now being targeted. The former CM added that neither he nor his family had received any summons before the raids. The premier investigative agency on Wednesday carried out multiple raids at premises linked to politicians, bureaucrats, senior police officers, and others suspected of involvement in the case.
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Big Tech companies of Bengaluru keen to expand business in Chhattisgarh: CM Vishnu Deo Sai
RAIPUR: Several major tech companies from Bengaluru, referred to as the Silicon Valley of India, have expressed their keen interest in expanding their business in Chhattisgarh. Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday engaged with top industrialists and business leaders in'Investors Connect Meet' held at Bengaluru to explore investment opportunities in the state. Prominent companies from sectors such as engineering, textiles, electronics, Information Technology/ITES, food processing, and green fuel presented investment proposals worth Rs 3700 crore to invest in Chhattisgarh. The CM, highlighting the states pro-industry policies and robust infrastructure, had received encouraging responses. With a $1.6 billion investment, Raipur is emerging as Central Indias premier IT hub. Major corporations such as BEML, NASSCOM, Gokaldas Exports, Britannia, TIE Bangalore, and the Karnataka Chamber of Commerce lauded Chhattisgarhs business-friendly policies and infrastructure support and submitted investment proposals during the Chhattisgarh Investors Meet held in Bengaluru, said the state government spokesperson. The Chhattisgarh government also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NASSCOM, India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA) and TiE Bangalore to boost the state's development and generate employment opportunities. Other major companies have also expressed significant investment commitments in Chhattisgarh. GPSR Arya Private Limited is set to invest Rs 1350 crore in the CBG Green Fuel sector, promoting biogas and green energy production to drive a clean energy revolution in the state. Klene Paks will invest Rs 500 crore in the textile industry, boosting manufacturing capacity and new employment opportunities. Britannia has committed Rs 200 crore to the food processing sector. Keynes Technology is making a Rs 1000 crore investment in IT/ITES, aiming to elevate Chhattisgarhs IT sector. Additionally, Gokaldas Exports and SRV Knit Tech Private Limited will invest Rs 100 crore each in the textile industry, further strengthening this sector within the state, the official press stated. With digital technology, Chhattisgarh is becoming a model state of good governance. We have now eliminated the paperwork for investment and are committed to creating a thriving industrial environment. The states new industrial policy has made the investment process much convenient and transparent, said the CM in Bengaluru while interacting with industrialists and investors in the Investors Connect Meet. The states new industrial policy simplifies business approvals through a single-window system and offers attractive incentives, including tax benefits, capital investment reimbursements (30-50%) and employment-linked incentives.
Mahadev app betting case: The CBI has raided 60 locations across Chhattisgarh, Bhopal, and Delhi. The agency searched the premises of Bhupesh Baghel, bureaucrats, police officials and other politicians
CBI Raids Bhupesh Baghel's Residences in Raipur and Bhilai | Mahadev App Scam News | Chhattisgarh
In a shocking development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has conducted searches at the residences of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel in Raipur and Bhilai. The raids are linked to the alleged 6,000 crore Mahadev app scam, in which Baghel has been accused of cheating, criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, and forgery. The CBI teams reached Baghel's residences, the houses of a senior police officer and a close associate of the former CM. The agency has taken over the investigation from the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Chhattisgarh Police .Baghel has termed the EOW FIR politically motivated and has questioned the timing of the CBI raids, which coincided with his scheduled trip to Delhi for a meeting of the Drafting Committee for the All India Congress Committee (AICC) [2). n18oc_breaking-news News18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
CBI Searches: Baghel Says Action Comes Ahead His Delhi Visit
RAIPUR, Mar 26: Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Wednesday said the CBI conducted searches at his residence ahead of his scheduled visit to New Delhi for a Congress meeting. Teams of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday swooped down at the residences of Baghel in Raipur and Bhilai as well as the residential premises of a senior police officer and a close associate of the former CM, officials said. The agency is tight-lipped about the matter [] The post CBI Searches: Baghel Says Action Comes Ahead His Delhi Visit appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CBI raids ex-C'garh CM Bhupesh Baghel's residence
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted searches at the residence of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel in Raipur and Bhilai on Wednesday. The agency also searched the residences of a senior police officer and a close associate of the former chief minister. The CBI is tight-lipped about the matter in which the searches are taking place. Further details are awaited. Recently, the Enforcement Directorate had conducted searches at Baghel's residence in connection with an alleged liquor scam case.
CBI Searches Former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghels Residence
Raids conducted in Raipur and Bhilai; agency remains tight-lipped on the case
Days After ED Raids, CBI Conducts Searches At Ex-Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel's House
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday carried out searches at Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel's Raipur and Bhilai residence.
CBI Raids Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel's Residence
CBI swooped down at the residence of Bhupesh Baghel in Raipur and Bhilai, as well as the residential premises of a senior police officer and a close associate of the former chief minister.
Three Maoists killed in encounter in Chattisgarh's Dantewada
RAIPUR: Three Maoists in uniform were killed in an encounter in the strife-torn Dantewada district on Tuesday as security forces intensified operations against left-wing insurgency, the Bastar police said. According to Bastar police, a team of security forces launched an anti-Maoist operation based on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of Maoists along the inter-district forest border area of Dantewada-Bijapur. At around 8 AM, an encounter broke out between the Maoists and the security forces that resulted in the death of three Maoists. A large cache of weapons besides explosives was also recovered from the scene. The gun battle is still on. The recovered bodies of the naxal cadres are yet to be identified. Reinforcement has been sent to the area and the search operation for Maoists further intensified in the region, which is long considered to be their safe shelter. No security personnel were injured in the operation, and further details are awaited.This year, 116 bodies of Maoists have been recovered so far in various encounters in Chhattisgarh. The recent encounters are part of a renewed strategy to eliminate Maoist influence in Chhattisgarh by March 2026. Dantewada remains one of the Maoist-affected districts in the Bastar zone and is cited as an epicentre of left-wing extremists in south Chhattisgarh.
RAIPUR: President Droupadi Murmu praised the Chhattisgarh Vidhan Sabha for establishing virtuous standards of 'democratic traditions' in the House that has never seen the use of force by Marshals during the last 25 years. While gracing the occasion of the silver jubilee celebration of the state Legislative Assembly in Raipur, the President said, I feel delighted that Chhattisgarh has presented a distinct ideal example regarding the conduct of the House not just for the country but the entire democratic world. I can tell from my experience that its a Saubhagya (good fortune)as an MLAto deliver ones responsibility inspired and committed to serving the people, she added. The President said the task of bringing the members of the Maoists into the mainstream of society has reached the final and decisive phase. I am told that the people in the Naxal-affected region want to move ahead on the path of development. Soon the state will succeed in getting rid of Maoist menace, she averred. Expressing delight at the elected figure of 19 women MLAs in the 90-member Assembly in the state having a better sex ratio at 991, she urged the women legislators to encourage other women working in different sectors and strengthen them in their professions. When every woman empowers each other then our society will become stronger and more sensitive. There should be efforts to further increase the number of women members in the House, said the President. She acclaimed Chhattisgarh as a state rich in natural and mineral resources but felt that the onus is on the policymakers to strike a right balance between development and nature. While advancing with modern development you need to ensure the conservation of the environment. All segments of society should be incorporated in the journey of modern development and growth, she opined. Speaker Dr Raman Singh informed the House that President Murmu is the third after Bharat Ratna APJ Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Devisingh Patil to address the Chhattisgarh Assembly. I take pride in being present on all three occasions, Singh said. President Murmu also commended the state Assembly as most of the 565 bills enacted by it were inspired by ideals of antyodya, humanism and holistic development.
Work to link Naxal-hit people to mainstream in final stage in Chhattisgarh: Murmu
Raipur, Mar 24: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday said the work to link people affected by Left Wing Extremism to the societys mainstream has reached the final stage in Chhattisgarh and expressed confidence that the state will soon get rid of the Naxal menace. Addressing the Chhattisgarh legislative assembly as a part of its silver jubilee year celebration, Murmu said the House has set the highest standards of democratic traditions and presented a unique example of best parliamentary conduct. She [] The post Work to link Naxal-hit people to mainstream in final stage in Chhattisgarh: Murmu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
From darkness to light: Naxal-hit village in Chhattisgarh gets electricity for first time
RAIPUR: A remote village in Chhattisgarh that bore the brunt of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) for years has finally got electricity after a wait of more than seven decades, officials said on Sunday. Locals in Timenar, a far-flung village in Maoist-affected Bijapur district, have been living in the dark without basic facilities, they said. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the electrification of Timenar signalled the beginning of a new era of governance and growth in the remote regions of Bastar. All 53 households in the village, an extension of Bechapal village panchayat in the Bhairamgarh development block, have been electrified for the first time after 77 years of Independence under the Chief Minister's Manjra-Tola Electrification Scheme, a government statement said. This remarkable achievement signifies the end of Maoist terror and the dawn of development, peace, and prosperity in the region, it added. Timenar residents Mashram, Pandru Kunjam, Mangli and Pramila expressed their joy, saying they had never thought they would see the glow of electricity, but hope has replaced despair. Residents said the arrival of electricity has eliminated the atmosphere of fear and insecurity and is a significant step towards improving their quality of life. For the first time, our village has got electricity. We no longer fear the darkness of the night and are free from the threats of wild animals, snakes, and scorpions. Our children can now study easily, and we finally feel that we are on the path to development, they said. As per the release, infrastructure such as roads, healthcare, and education facilities are also being strengthened in the village. Chief Minister Sai said his government is committed to electrifying every manjra-tola (hamlets) and accelerating development in the Maoist-affected regions. Where there was once the shadow of Maoist terror, the rays of development are shining. This transformation is a true victory. The electrification of Timenar signals the beginning of a new era of governance and growth in the remote regions of Bastar. This region is now moving towards prosperity and progress, free from the fear of Maoist violence, Sai said in the statement. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had said the Narendra Modi government is moving forward with a ruthless approach against Naxalites and is adopting a zero-tolerance policy against those Maoists who have not surrendered despite facilities being offered to them, ranging from surrender to inclusion. He declared that the country will be Naxal-free by March 31, 2026. As many as 113 Naxalites have been gunned down in separate encounters in Chhattisgarh so far this year. Of these, 97 were eliminated in the Bastar division, comprising seven districts, including Bijapur. Chhattisgarh witnessed 47% decline in Naxal violence, 64% reduction in civilian and security forces casualties: MoS Rai in LS
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RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh forest department has urged the media to avoid the use of harsh words that create a negative perception about elephants. The Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Prem Kumar stated that words like 'aatanki' (terrorist), 'utpaati' (oppressor), 'hatyara' (murderer), 'hinsak' (violent), 'pagal' (mad), 'bigdail' (spoiled), 'gussail' (violent), 'ziddi' (stubborn) in the media increases the fear of jumbos among the public. Chhattisgarh is believed to be the first state to have shared concerns over the use of such comments in media coverage for wild elephants whenever the majestic animals encroach human habitats or plunder agricultural fields. Human-elephant conflicts have persisted in Chhattisgarh, with 303 people having been killed in such encounters in the state from 2019-24, according to the Centre. The forest department appealed to the media to take steps towards creating positivity regarding elephants. Elephants in India are not just wildlife, but an integral part of culture, religious beliefs and traditions. Human-elephant conflict should not just be presented as a confrontation but co-existence too can be promoted in a broader context, the officer said. Elephants are mentioned as 'keystone species' and 'ecosystem engineers' as they play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of forests. The forest department said elephants have had a close relationship with humans in the history of Chhattisgarh as mentioned in the 11th century copper plates of Bastar, Mughal records and gazetteers of British rule. Akbar's court writer Abul Fazal's 'Ain-e-Akbari' and the records of the reign of the Kalchuri kings also provide evidence of the mutual relationship between elephants and humans of Chhattisgarh, the officer added. Media, particularly the Hindi language ones, are frequently seen using discourteous and undignified words for the majestic animals, said Nitin Singhvi, a Chhattisgarh-based wildlife enthusiast, who raised the issue with the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) in 2021.
Fantastic achievement to win IML three times in a row: Tendulkar
Mumbai, Mar 21: Legendary Sachin Tendulkar says the Indian teams third straight title win at the International Masters League is a reflection of proper planning and fantastic teamwork. Indian Masters beat West Indies Masters by six wickets with Ambati Rayudu (74) and Ranganath Vinay Kumar (3 wickets) doing the star turn for the hosts on March 16 in Raipur. Tendulkar scored 25 runs in the title clash. Yes, it is a fantastic achievement. And its a reflection of good teamwork, [] The post Fantastic achievement to win IML three times in a row: Tendulkar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Chhattisgarh: BJP MLAs corner govt on religious conversions
RAIPUR: The BJP-ruled government in Chhattisgarh faced tough questions from its own legislators during the budget session of the House over cases of religious conversion allegedly taking place in the state. BJP MLAs claimed that several such incidents had been reported in the state, noting that the situation is particularly grim in Bastar division. The saffron partys MLAs claim that the prohibited practice is still prevalent in parts of the state. When the demography changes (owing to religious conversions), the situation will turn worrisome for Chhattisgarh if the strict rules to prevent religious conversions are not executed, said BJP MLA Ajay Chandrakar. Another BJP leader, Sushant Shukla, expressed, The state home minister, Vijay Sharma, has no knowledge about the activities of Joshua Project (an evangelical Christian organisation) in the state. Shukla alleged that the organisation has been carrying out religious conversions with the help of missionary organisations as the authorities look the other way. Sharma responded by assuring, Action is being taken against religious conversions in accordance with the provisions of the old existing rules. Reaffirming the state governments commitment to addressing the issue, he added, Soon, we will bring in tougher anti-conversion laws and frame new regulations to check such unlawful activities. The Chhattisgarh Christian Forum expressed its dismay, stating that the community is being targeted and maligned. We are moving the Supreme Court to seek a clear definition of dharmantran (religious conversion). The apex court should issue a set of guidelines that can help determine when the need for government intervention arises in such cases, shared Arun Pannalal, president of the forum. The Congress maintains that propagating ones faith or religion is not a crime. Tougher law soon Party MLAs assert the prohibited practice is still prevalent State HM Vijay Sharma says action is being taken against religious conversions in line with existing norms Soon, the state will get tougher anti-conversion laws and new regulations to check such unlawful activities, the HM says Chhattisgarh Christian Forum moves SC seeking a clear definition of dharmantran
PM Modi assures full support for Bastars transformation plan
RAIPUR: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis scheduled visit to Chhattisgarh on 30 March, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai presented him with the states development roadmap, particularly focusing on the transformation of Bastar, a region predominantly inhabited by tribal communities. Bastar, which has been grappling with a four-decade-long Maoist insurgency, is now set to be a part of a comprehensive Master Plan aimed at guiding and regulating its present and future development. CM Sai informed the Prime Minister that left-wing extremism in the state is on the verge of being eradicated. The Master Plan outlines a vision to turn the Maoist-affected areas into hubs of infrastructure, industry, and tourism. During discussions, PM Modi responded positively and assured full support from the Centre, CM Sai stated. With coordinated efforts from security forces and peoples participation, rapid changes are evident in the affected regions. The results are for all to seehow state police and central forces have successfully extended development to erstwhile strongholds of naxalites and attained the trust of people in government initiatives, he said. The chief minister emphasised that the states primary focus remains on developing Bastar into a new industrial and economic centre, creating employment opportunities for youths, and improving the living standards of tribal communities. During the meeting, CM Sai elaborated on Chhattisgarhs new industrial policy, which fosters an investor-friendly environment with innovative-driven proposals aimed at economic growth, job creation, and sustainable industrial development. The state government has introduced a single-window clearance system, tax incentives, and policies attracting major companies to invest in Chhattisgarh. The Prime Minister was also briefed on various initiatives aimed at making rural women in Bastar self-reliant. Through self-help groups, thousands of women are gaining economic independence and employment opportunities. The governments promotion of minor forest produce, organic farming, handloom, bamboo industries, and handicrafts is helping women secure livelihoods while strengthening the local economy. Additionally, startups and small-scale industries are linking Bastars women to production and marketing networks, ensuring their financial independence and contribution to the states economic progress. The government has prioritised womens empowerment and rural development as key areas of focus.
Journalist Mukesh Chandrakar murder: 1200-page chargesheet filed in court
RAIPUR: The Bijapur police in south Chhattisgarh on Tuesday filed a 1241-page chargesheet in the district court against the four accused including a contractor in the brutal killing of a 33-year-old journalist Mukesh Chandrakar on January 1 this year. The Bastar scribe was murdered, after he went missing, reportedly owing to his investigative report on the irregularities and bad road construction works in the area by a contractor, Suresh Chandrakar, a prime accused who also happens to be a relative of Mukesh. An 11-member special investigation team (SIT) led by Bijapur additional superintendent of police Bijapur Mayank Gurjar was then constituted to probe the death of the journalist. The chargesheet presented by the SIT team had named Suresh besides Ritesh Chandrakar and Dinesh Chandrakar (both are cousins of Mukesh) and a contractors employee Mahendra Ramteke. The police produced a 1200-page plus chargesheet in the Mukesh Chandrakar murder case before the court against the four accused under various sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Detailed investigations taking into consideration digital and physical evidence were carried out. We will strongly contest the case to ensure stringent punishment be meted out to all the four accused, said Mayank Gurjar. Mukesh, who was earlier a freelancer for a couple of national media houses, had his own YouTube channel Bastar Junction.
Chhattisgarh BJP MLAs corner their government on religious conversions; Christian forum to move SC
RAIPUR: The BJP-ruled government in Chhattisgarh faced tough questions from its own legislators during the ongoing budget session of the House over alleged religious conversions happening in the state. BJP MLAs claimed several incidents of conversions have been reported in the state and the situation remains more serious in Bastar division. The BJP had often raised the issue of religious conversions during the previous Congress regime and now their MLAs asserted such prohibited practice exists and is even happening in some of their respective constituencies. The CM had earlier cited on foreign funds being misused for religious conversions. When the demography changes (owing to religious conversions), the situation will turn worrisome for Chhattisgarh if the strict rules to prevent religious conversions are not genuinely made and executed, said Ajay Chandrakar, senior BJP MLA. Another BJP leader Sushant Shukla pointed out that the state home minister has no information about the activities of Joshua project operating in the state. Shukla claimed such a project is coordinating the affair of religious conversions and change of faith in association with the missionary organisations while the administration remains non-serious on it. The state home minister Vijay Sharma said that the actions against religious conversions were being taken in accordance with the provisions of the old existing rules. The state government remains concerned and aware. Soon we will bring tougher anti-conversion laws and frame new regulations to check such unlawful activities, Sharma affirmed. In Chhattisgarh 364 organisations were earlier registered under the Foreign Contributions (Regulation) Act. As of today, there are 153 NGOs presently getting the foreign funds and engaged in different works in the state. The administration and other agencies are monitoring, the home minister said. Christian forum in Chhattisgarh expressing resentment stated that the community is being targeted and maligned though not a single conversion forcefully or by fraudulent means reported or proven in any court. We are soon moving our plea in the Supreme Court seeking the definition on what exactly the dharmantran (religious conversion) implies. There should be some guidelines issued by the apex court to suggest at what stage the governments interference should begin on alleged dharmantran so that administration and police get some direction on such a vexed issue. Is merely purchasing or reading a bible or attending a church enough to be implicated with religious conversions?, averred Arun Pannalal, president of the Chhattisgarh Christian Forum. The opposition Congress maintained that propagating one's faith or religion is not a crime and is guaranteed under the Constitution provided it is not influenced by any allurement, temptation or coercion.
ITBP constable guns down senior after spat over dress code
An ITBP constable shot and killed his senior colleague after an argument in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The incident occurred at the ITBP battalion headquarters. The constable fired 20 rounds from his Insas rifle, which resulted in the death of the senior officer. A detailed investigation into the incident is currently underway.
