In a significant statement, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma has taken a dig at the Congress and hinted at discontinuing several schemes implemented by the previous government. He emphasized that the schemes designed to benefit the pockets of the previous Congress government would be terminated. Additionally, he announced the cessation of the electricity bill waiver scheme, clarifying that while the bill waiver would end, the electricity subsidy would continue.
Addressing the issue of Naxal activities, Sharma highlighted the need to confront Naxalism with strength, indicating a lack of room for dialogue in dealing with the menace. Notably, this comes as Sharma visited his hometown of Kawardha for the first time since assuming the position of Deputy CM, receiving a grand welcome from residents, party workers, and supporters.
During a public interaction event at Gandhi Maidan in Kawardha, Sharma engaged with journalists, stating that paddy would be procured at Rs 2,100 per quintal this year, providing a boost to farmers. Acknowledging the Naxal problem in the state, he underscored the necessity of dealing decisively with Naxalism, ruling out the possibility of dialogue in this regard.
Sharma reiterated his commitment to discontinue schemes that served as avenues for financial misappropriation by the previous administration. He hinted at an imminent expansion of the cabinet, signaling changes in the ministerial lineup. In addition, he criticized the lack of developmental initiatives undertaken by the previous government in Kawardha, attributing any progress to projects approved by the BJP-led government.
It is worth noting that in the previous elections, the Congress had announced a half-bill electricity scheme, providing relief to households consuming up to 400 units. This scheme has brought significant savings to consumers, ranging from 300 to 900 rupees on their electricity bills. However, with Deputy Chief Minister Sharma’s recent statement, there is growing speculation that the popular electricity bill waiver scheme initiated by the Congress government may face discontinuation. As the BJP has not made any specific promises regarding electricity bills, concerns among consumers have escalated.