EOW to Investigate Corruption in Bharatmala Project: Surrendered Naxals to Receive Financial Aid; Cabinet Approves Fellowship Scheme

Raipur

Chhattisgarh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, decided to hand over the investigation into corruption in the Bharatmala Project to the Economic Offences Wing (EOW). The Chief Minister asserted that no guilty party would be spared. The issue of corruption had sparked intense debate in the state assembly on Wednesday, with Leader of Opposition Charan Das Mahant announcing to approach the High Court.

Additionally, the cabinet approved the Chhattisgarh Naxalite Surrender/Victim Relief and Rehabilitation Policy-2025, which includes provisions for financial assistance, rehabilitation, education, employment, and security for surrendered Naxals.

Why Did the Bharatmala Project Cause an Uproar in the Assembly?

The Bharatmala Project corruption scandal led to heated exchanges in the Chhattisgarh Assembly. During the session, departmental minister Tankaram Verma acknowledged the presence of corruption. Amid the uproar, he announced an inquiry by the Divisional Commissioner. However, the opposition insisted on a CBI investigation.

Responding to Leader of Opposition’s demand, CM Vishnu Deo Sai remarked that it was the Congress government that had banned the CBI in the state.