Raipur
The third day of the Winter Session of the Chhattisgarh Assembly was marked by debates and significant discussions on various pressing issues. On Thursday, the Assembly passed the second supplementary budget for the financial year 2024-25, amounting to over Rs 805 crore, through a voice vote.
Debate on DMF Fund Usage
BJP MLA Ajay Chandrakar raised concerns over the utilization of the District Mineral Fund (DMF) for constructing the Korakotti road and another road connecting the Hiroli Health Center to a nearby camp in Dantewada. Dissatisfied with the minister’s explanation, Chandrakar engaged in a heated exchange with Minister Vijay Sharma. The opposition joined in, creating an uproar and leaving Sharma on the defensive.
Fire Safety in Hospitals
During the Question Hour, Congress MLA Dharamjeet Singh highlighted lapses in hospital fire safety, alleging that fire audit certificates were being sold for Rs 2,000. He demanded clarity on the provisions for fire safety audits and their enforcement.
Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal explained that fire audits are mandatory for hospitals with over 30 beds or buildings exceeding 9 meters in height. He assured that regular audits are conducted, and penalties are levied for violations. Fire audits and certifications are overseen by the Home Department.
However, Singh criticized the minister for inadequate knowledge and called for audits by competent authorities. Home Minister Vijay Sharma acknowledged the oversight and promised corrective action.
Environmental Pollution and Other Concerns
Zero Hour saw the Leader of the Opposition bringing a motion on environmental pollution caused by mining and transportation. Congress MLA Raghvendra Singh submitted a motion on pond encroachments, while Bijapur MLA Vikram Mandavi and other Congress MLAs raised issues of illegal sand mining, accidents, and difficulties faced by schoolchildren due to such activities.
Questions on Hamar Clinic Expenditure
BJP MLA Rajesh Munat questioned the spending on Hamar Clinics, accusing the previous government of prioritizing publicity over functionality. He cited incomplete setups and unavailability of medicines in many clinics.
Minister Jaiswal responded by stating that pending works are being investigated, and the government has sought funds from the Centre. He assured that irregularities would be probed and corrective actions would be implemented.
Exchange Over Road Construction Irregularities
Ajay Chandrakar questioned Minister Vijay Sharma regarding irregularities in road construction under the PMGSY program. Dissatisfied with the replies, Chandrakar accused the minister of concealing corruption. Following an uproar from the opposition, Sharma announced the suspension of the Executive Engineer and SDO, along with prior suspension of the Sub-Engineer. FIRs were lodged, and Sharma assured a detailed investigation.
Closure of Discussions
The day concluded with sharp exchanges between ruling and opposition members. Chandrakar sarcastically thanked the minister for agreeing to an investigation. The Speaker wrapped up the session, urging members to maintain decorum in their debates and expressions of gratitude.
