In House, Cong say govt protecting corrupt officials behind ‘illegal colonies’, walk out

Raipur: Opposition Congress members staged a walkout from the Chhattisgarh Assembly in Raipur on Tuesday, expressing dissatisfaction with revenue minister Tank Ram Verma's response on illegal colonies and plotting.The issue arose during Question Hour when Congress MLA Ambika Markam sought details of complaints received between 2024–25 and Jan 31, 2026, along with updates on verification of land records (khasras) and action taken.Responding, Verma said three complaints were reported in Dhamtari and five in Kanker. He informed the House that eight out of 175 identified khasras were examined, while the remaining cases are under inquiry. The govt has withheld increments of three patwaris and issued notices to several officials as part of its action. Former CM Bhupesh Baghel alleged that the revenue department was encouraging such activities and the department minister was providing protection to those involved. The opposition demanded an inquiry by the EOW. Following the minister's refusal and the lack of comprehensive data, Congress members walked out in protest. The issue also drew concerns from BJP legislators over land-related irregularities. MLA Gomati Sai alleged illegal transfer of tribal land to non-tribals in Jashpur, while Bhawna Bohra raised similar concerns in Kabirdham district.