Deep-seated tensions and divisions persisted within the ruling Congress in Chhattisgarh even as it notched up one bypoll victory after another following the 2018 win, touching a figure of 71 MLAs. In 2023 though, the cracks played a big role in sinking the ship.
There was a constant battle of one-upmanship among leaders, including a very public tussle between CM Bhupesh Baghel and health minister (and later deputy CM) T S Singhdeo. A major flashpoint was a tussle over the CM's chair midway into the term, with Singhdeo camping in Delhi to meet the party high command amid rumours of a purported formula of a change of guard after 2.5 years. Baghel's supporters flew down to Delhi in a show of strength at AICC headquarters. The tussle subsided but the scars remained. Singhdeo conveyed his displeasure over several issues from time to time.
In the run-up to the election, Baghel's social media managers coined a slogan, "Bhupesh Hai to Bharosa Hai". Posters came up all over the state. Later, these were replaced by 'Congress Sarkar, Bharose ka Sarkar' as the party leadership tried to put up a united face.
Insiders say Baghel and his core team used every opportunity to marginalise other leaders. Mohan Markam, state Congress chief, was replaced with another tribal, Deepak Baij, three months before the polls. Markam was accommodated in the cabinet but another tribal leader, Prem Sai Singh Tekam, close to Singhdeo, was dropped for this.
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