Bastar: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has strongly barked at the demand for splitting up the state by asking those opposing the move “anti-development”. The double-engine government has made good headway towards being able to wipe out the Naxalism, which was once deemed impossible, he said.
The remarks were made by Sai after reaching Raipur after visiting Delhi for three days. The Chief Minister on his visit attended a meeting of the Jal Shakti government and interacted with the top officials of the government.
The Janmashtami Festival was celebrated at Raipur airport where a vast mass of people welcomed Sai. He was greeted by the traditional music and bouquets.
Addressing the journalists, Sai spoke about the work of Chhattisgarh under the “Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan”. The state has got the No.1 position nationally under the water conservation campaign while five districts have been in the top 10 list of districts in the country for water conservation efforts, he said.
The government has set out to preserve every drop of rainwater, which would in turn secure water for future generations, the Chief Minister said. He recommended each state should create a “Catch the Rain Plan” specific to each state’s conditions.
Sai also suggested the creation of “State Water Awards”, in order to acknowledge the performance of the appropriate states in the field of water conservation. He said technology, regular checks and public involvement can help more effectively conserve water.
On the other count of Bastar state demand, Sai stated Naxal groups were opposing the roads, schools and the development project in Bastar. He attributed Naxalism’s gains to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support and effort, Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s drive and the valour of security personnel.
Sai pointed out that the voices calling for a separate Bastar state were voicing a message which is really counterproductive towards development and said that the demand itself is opposed to the interests of Chhattisgarh people.