Chhattisgarh’s political landscape stirred controversy as BJP National President and Union Health Minister JP Nadda accused the Congress of internal collusion in the 2013 Jhiram Ghati Maoist attack that claimed the lives of top state leaders. Nadda’s claims, made at the ‘Janadesh Parab’ event marking two years of the Vishnu Deo Sai government, were met with strong denials from Congress leaders, including former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel.
Speaking at Khokhra Police Ground in Janjgir-Champa, Nadda alleged that movement details of Congress leaders were leaked from within the party, facilitating the deadly ambush that resulted in the deaths of leaders like Nand Kumar Patel and Mahendra Karma. He also asserted that the current government’s efforts would eliminate Maoism by March 2026, emphasizing Congress’s historical ties to extremists.
The 2013 incident occurred on May 25 during the ‘Parivartan Rally’ ahead of assembly elections in the Jhiram valley, where Maoists attacked a convoy of Congress leaders, resulting in the deaths of 32 individuals, including Nand Kumar Patel, Mahendra Karma, and Vidyacharan Shukla. Chhattisgarh Congress President Deepak Baij refuted Nadda’s statements as factually incorrect and insensitive, highlighting the BJP’s governance in 2013 and alleged negligence of intelligence warnings.
Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel criticized Nadda, labeling him a “puppet” and accusing him of disrespecting the martyrs who lost their lives in the Jhiram attack. Baghel called for thorough interrogation by security agencies, including the NIA, to substantiate Nadda’s allegations and uncover the truth behind the incident. He also questioned the BJP’s handling of the situation in 2013 and its failure to eradicate Naxalism during its 15-year tenure.
The event, amidst the political dispute, highlighted various government achievements, including the expansion of medical colleges, initiatives empowering women, and housing projects under welfare schemes. Nadda expressed gratitude to voters for rejecting Congress’s alleged corruption and mismanagement in 2023, praising the developmental strides under PM Modi and Home Minister Shah.
