Raipur: In a fiery exchange of words at Manthan Chhattisgarh, former Chief Minister Raman Singh faced tough questions from News24 Editor-in-Chief Anurradha Prasad. The event was held in Raipur, and witnessed Raman Singh’s candid responses to pressing inquiries.

Raman Singh wasted no time in challenging the claims made by current Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. He argued that Baghel’s promises, including complete prohibition of liquor and unemployment allowances for 10 lakh youth, remain unfulfilled. Singh accused the Congress government of failing to deliver on its manifesto commitments.

Confidence in BJP’s victory

When asked about the BJP’s prospects in the upcoming elections, Raman Singh expressed confidence. He highlighted the enthusiastic reception received during the Parivartan Yatra in Dantewada and Jaspur, suggesting that the BJP was on track to form the government.

Leadership and the CM Face

Regarding the leadership and the face of the Chief Minister, Raman Singh emphasized that the BJP traditionally operates under collective leadership. He indicated that the decision on the Chief Ministerial candidate would be made by the legislative party following the elections.

BJP’s strategy and opposition’s allegations

Responding to allegations that the BJP cannot contest elections independently and has resorted to agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Income Tax department (IT), Singh defended his party’s actions. He countered by pointing out the corruption charges against the Congress government, including a liquor scam worth Rs 2,151 crore and a coal scam amounting to Rs 540 crore. Singh accused the Congress of breaking records in corruption, particularly highlighting the alleged Rs 1,300 crore cow slaughter scam.

The verbal sparring at Manthan Chhattisgarh exemplified the high-stakes political battle unfolding in the state as the elections draw near. With both the BJP and Congress locked in intense competition, Chhattisgarh’s political landscape remains dynamic and unpredictable.