Chhattisgarh, a Congress stronghold, goes to polls in November. The party regained power in 2018 after 15 years, winning 68 out of 90 seats. It controls all seats in tribal-dominated regions, while BJP dominates the central region.
The BJP aims to address the leadership issue in Chhattisgarh after its defeat in Karnataka. It changed the state president and leader of the Opposition. However, the leadership problem remains unresolved, and the recent exit of tribal leader Nand Kumar Sai weakens BJP’s position.
The Congress also faces a leadership problem. Baghel and Singhdeo had a fallout over the chief ministership. Peace between them is crucial for a united front in the polls.
Corruption is a major concern, with ongoing investigations and arrests related to coal and liquor scams.
The recent Congress government formation in Karnataka eases financial pressure on Chhattisgarh Congress.
Local issues include BJP’s claim of the government’s failure in ensuring citizen benefits and Congress’s focus on paddy bonuses and ‘soft Hindutva’ initiatives. However, Baghel’s policies primarily benefit the central region, while facing criticism for handling communal tensions.
Chhattisgarh has a strong Congress presence at the booth level, but the BJP presents a formidable challenge.