The year 2024 will be remembered as a significant one for Chhattisgarh, with several incidents capturing national attention and sparking widespread discussion.
These incidents include the dynamic and sometimes tumultuous nature of events that occurred in Chhattisgarh throughout 2024, including the issues of governance, security, and community engagement. Some of these incidents got highlighted and mentioned below:
1. Acharya Vidyasagar Passes Away
Date: February 27, 2024
Acharya Vidyasagar |
Acharya Vidya Sagar Maharaj, a revered monk of the Digambar Muni tradition, died at Chandragiri Tirth in Dongargarh. Following his death, the Madhya Pradesh government canceled cultural programs and declared a half-day state mourning in both Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
2. Conflagration at the CSPDCL Transformer Warehouse in Raipur
Date: April 5, 2024
A massive fire broke out in the CSPDCL warehouse located in the Gudhiyari area of Raipur, engulfing approximately 90% of the facility which spanned 3.5 acres. The blaze destroyed around 1,500 transformers and other equipment, resulting in a loss exceeding Rs 100 crore to the exchequer. Firefighters took over 12 hours to extinguish the flames, but fortunately, there were no injuries reported. Despite, it was a blunder, none of the senior officer was held guilty for the mismanagement and the huge loss to the government.
3. Bemetara Blast
Date: May 25, 2024
A significant explosion occurred at a gunpowder factory in Pirda, Bemetara district. The blast was so powerful that it resulted in the dismemberment of victims. Authorities confirmed one death, and eight individuals still remained missing. The government ordered DNA tests to help identify the victims. However, in the case major flaw has been observed about the security measures when it came to security and management. Unfortunately, till the date no authority has been prosecuted.
4. Violent Mob Sets Fire to SP-Collector Office; MLA Arrested
Date: June 10, 2024
In Balodabazar district, a demonstration led by Satnami Community leaders escalated into violence, with over 10,000 participants clashing with police. The mob set fire to the district collector and SP offices, damaging more than 77 vehicles. Congress MLA Devendra Yadav was arrested on allegations of inciting the violence, which stemmed from dissatisfaction with police handling of a prior incident involving damage to a religious site.
5. Brijmohan Agrawal Resigns as Minister**
Date: June 19, 2024
Brijmohan Agrawal, an eight-time MLA from Raipur South, resigned from his ministerial position after attending a cabinet meeting. He had successfully contested the Raipur Lok Sabha seat and stepped down to allow ex-MP Sunil Soni to take over.
5. Know Your Army” Program
Date: October 5, 2024
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai | One India Hindi
The Indian Army, in collaboration with the Raipur District Administration, hosted the “Know Your Army” program at the Science College Ground. For the first time, the T-90 main battle tank was displayed in Raipur. Para commandos and Ghatak commandos showcased their skills, including demonstrations of surgical strikes. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai attended the event.
6. Security Forces Kill 38 Naxals in Encounter
Date: October 4, 2024
In an operation near Thulthuli village, security forces engaged in a fierce encounter with Maoists, resulting in the deaths of 38 insurgents within two hours. This joint operation involved 1,000 personnel from the District Reserve Guard, local police, and central paramilitary forces, who successfully executed a strategy to surround the area. A significant cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered.
7. Amit Shah Visits Hidma’s Village; Naxal-Free Bastar by 2026
Date: December 16, 2024
Union Home Minister Amit Shah became the first high-ranking official to visit Gundam village, a stronghold of notorious Naxal commander Hidma. During his 24-hour visit, he announced that Bastar would be declared free of Maoists by March 31, 2026, while villagers presented him with a basket of Kochai-Kanda.
8. UN Selects Dhudmaras Village for Eco-Tourism
Date: November 18, 2024
Dhudmaras village in Bastar received international recognition for its eco-tourism potential, including kayaking and bamboo rafting. It was selected by the UN as one of the best villages among 55 worldwide, highlighting its natural beauty and hospitable homestay options.
10. ED Raids Ex-Minister Kawasi Lakhma’s Residence
Date: December 28, 2024
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at the residence of former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma and his son, Harish Kawasi, as part of an investigation into a multi-crore liquor scam involving alleged kickbacks of Rs 50 lakh per month to the Minister.
Several incriminating documents were seized, including the documents signed by then excise Minister. Lakhma claimed he is illiterate and he was framed. Whatever the documents the officers provided to him, he signed. He further stated that he signed documents provided by an officer due to his illiteracy.
