The political climate in Chhattisgarh has become tense after Amit Baghel, the chief of Johar Chhattisgarh Party (JCP), made a controversial remark. Following the incident of the Chhattisgarh Mahatari idol being vandalized in Raipur, Baghel’s comments sparked outrage and stirred both political and social reactions across the state.
Who is Amit Baghel?
Amit Baghel is the founder and president of the Johar Chhattisgarh Party, a regional political outfit. He contested the 2023 assembly election from Dharsiwa constituency in Raipur district. Professionally, he is engaged in business and agriculture. According to his election affidavit, he has several criminal cases pending, but Baghel describes himself as a voice for Chhattisgarh’s pride and soil.
What Did Amit Baghel Say?
After the Chhattisgarh Mahatari idol was vandalized in Raipur’s Telibandha area, Amit Baghel reportedly said:
If the statue of Chhattisgarh Mahatari can be broken, then why not the idols of other great figures?
This statement was deemed offensive by the Agarwal and Sindhi communities, as they believed it disrespected revered personalities like Maharaja Agrasen and Lord Jhulelal
How the Controversy Started
The Agarwal Mahasabha Raipur and Sindhi community groups lodged formal complaints.
An FIR was registered at Raipur City Kotwali police station under sections related to hurting religious and social sentiments
Protests and social media campaigns (#ArrestAmitBaghel) began demanding strict action.
Legal Action & Baghel’s Response
Raipur Police has launched an investigation into the matter
In his defense, Amit Baghel claimed his words were misinterpreted, saying:
I only spoke for the honor of Chhattisgarh’s motherland. I never intended to insult any religion or community
Despite his clarification, many organizations are continuing to demand legal action against him.
DIGI MERCH STORE PRINT ON DEMAND
Political Reactions
Opposition parties are calling this an attack on Chhattisgarh’s identity and culture.
Meanwhile, the Johar Chhattisgarh Party alleges that Baghel’s statement is being twisted for political gain by rivals.
The Chhattisgarh Mahatari Idol Row
Chhattisgarh Mahatari” is considered the symbolic mother of the state, much like “Bharat Mata” at the national level. The recent vandalism of her idol angered many across the state. In response to this, Baghel made his statement — which later spiraled into a full-blown controversy due to its sensitive nature
Public Reactions
Some supporters see Amit Baghel as a defender of Chhattisgarh’s identity and voice of regional pride.
Others, however, believe his words were provocative and disrespectful, demanding punishment under law.
religioussentiments. Facebookposts
AmitBaghelcontroversy. Instagramposts
JoharChhattisgarhParty. GraphicReports
ChhattisgarhMahataristatue. Websitebanners
Comment
