Chhattisgarh Election Buzz: Bhupesh Baghel’s Sofa Pic Sparks Debate and Targets Amit Shah

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has responded to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s challenge for a debate on his government’s achievements. Baghel, who has been facing corruption allegations related to the Mahadev betting app, accepted Shah’s invitation and asked him to name the date, time, and place for the debate. Baghel made the announcement in a tongue-in-cheek post on social media, accompanied by a photograph of a two-seater black sofa with placards bearing the names of both leaders. However, Shah has not yet responded to Baghel’s post.

Earlier, Shah had responded to the Congress party’s demand for the BJP to show “report cards” of its state governments. Shah challenged the Congress to debate their work over the past five years, as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s work over the past 15 years. However, Baghel’s corruption allegations have cast a shadow over his government’s performance. The ruling Congress party is still considered the frontrunner in the Chhattisgarh Assembly election, despite the allegations.

A recent opinion poll showed that 79% of the electorate is at least somewhat satisfied with Baghel’s performance, with 39% wanting him to return as Chief Minister. Baghel has denied all charges and criticized the BJP for allegedly using the Enforcement Directorate to tarnish the party’s image.

The first phase of the Chhattisgarh Assembly election took place on Tuesday, and the second phase will be held on November 17. The results, along with those from Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan, and Mizoram, will be declared on December 3.

It remains to be seen whether Shah will respond to Baghel’s invitation for a debate.