Chhattisgarh Chief Minister-designate Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday accused the Congress party of exploiting tribal communities merely as a "vote bank", contrasting it with the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) commitment to the welfare of tribal populations. The 59-year-old Sai, a prominent tribal figure in the state, was elected as the legislative party leader during a meeting of 54 newly elected BJP lawmakers.


Upon his election, Chief Minister-designate Sai met with party workers at the state guest house 'Pahuna,' expressing gratitude and addressing the challenges ahead. Speaking to reporters, he stated, "Indeed, it's a big responsibility (the CM post) and challenging, but I have full faith that I will continue to get guidance and support from national leadership and all party MLAs", as quoted by news agency PTI.


Responding to a query on whether his appointment would benefit the party in tribal-dominated states like Odisha and Jharkhand, Sai emphasised the BJP's historical commitment to tribal welfare. He pointed to instances like the appointment of Droupadi Murmu, a tribal community member, as the President during the BJP regime and the establishment of a separate tribal development ministry under the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.


"Tribals are well aware that under the BJP rule, their development, well-being, and respect are achievable," Sai affirmed, as per PTI.


Sai, known for his involvement in various party roles, affirmed his dedication to discharging responsibilities effectively. "I have discharged whatever responsibilities given by the party to me, and I am confident that this time also, I will discharge the new challenging responsibility in a similar way," he added.


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Congress Treats Tribals As Their Vote Bank: Chhattisgarh CM-Designate


Later in the day, Sai paid respects to Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, a freedom fighter from the tribal community, at Jai Stambh Chowk in the capital. Reflecting on the significance of the day, he stated, "Today is the death anniversary of Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, and therefore, I have come to pay tribute to him."


Taking a swipe at the Congress, Sai claimed, "BJP takes care of the tribal community. I should not say this today, but the Congress treats tribals as their vote bank", as quoted by PTI.


The Chief Minister-designate concluded his day by returning to his residence in Vidhayak Colony, where he received a warm welcome from family members and party workers.


Earlier, outgoing CM Bhupesh Baghel congratulated Sai in a post on X where he wrote: "Congratulations and best wishes to Kunkuri MLA and senior BJP leader Shri Vishnu Dev Sai ji on being elected as the leader of the BJP Legislative Party. I wish that as the Chief Minister you take forward Chhattisgarh's journey of justice and progress."



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