Chhattisgarh Voters Approve Congress’ Handling of Tribals and Maoist Situation: NDTV Survey
According to the NDTV-CSDS Lokniti prepoll survey, Chhattisgarh voters have given a thumbs-up to the ruling Congress party regarding its handling of tribal communities and the Maoist situation. This positive feedback comes as a boost for Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, especially amidst recent allegations of bribery against him. The survey indicates that 45% of voters feel that the Baghel government has improved the condition of tribal communities, while 21% believe it has worsened. Additionally, 30% of voters believe that Mr. Baghel has dealt satisfactorily with the Maoist threat.
The approval from tribal communities is of significant importance as they make up nearly 30% of the state’s population and are concentrated in the Bastar and Surguja regions. In the 2018 election, the Congress party won all six seats in these regions, except for Jagdalpur and Sitapur. However, all six seats were won by the Congress. Out of the 90-member Assembly in Chhattisgarh, 29 seats are reserved for ST lawmakers.
Furthermore, Chief Minister Baghel has also earned high ratings for improving the condition of farmers, with 61% of voters suggesting that his administration has positively impacted their fortunes. The state has also received good marks for an improved road network, better government-run schools and hospitals, as well as stable electricity and drinking water supply. Mr. Baghel’s government received a 64% favorable rating for electricity and state-run schools, and a 56% score for hospitals and roads.
Overall, the survey indicates that 79% of voters are at least somewhat satisfied with the Congress’ performance over the last five years, while only 10% express complete dissatisfaction. This is significant news for a state that has traditionally voted out the incumbent party. However, it is important to note that this is only the sixth Assembly election in Chhattisgarh.
The NDTV-CSDS Lokniti opinion poll was conducted over a week, starting from October 24. It covered 25 of the state’s 90 Assembly constituencies, with a total of 2,541 respondents surveyed.
