During the Budget session of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, fiery debates erupted over the procurement of cow dung conducted by the previous Congress government.

BJP lawmakers and ministers launched a scathing onslaught on the Congress, leveling accusations of corruption against them during their tenure.

Amidst the fervent discussions held on Monday, Assembly Speaker Raman Singh directed probing questions at Minister Brijmohan Agrawal regarding the cow dung procurement process. Dr Singh’s wry remark, “If cows ate less fodder, how was there more dung?” epitomised the skepticism surrounding the issue. In response, Minister Brijmohan Agrawal suggested an investigation by the pertinent committee if warranted.

BJP Legislators Ajay Chandrakar and Lata Usendi raised alarm over the exorbitant expenditures incurred in cow dung transportation under the Congress regime. Chandrakar’s scrutiny of the agriculture department, where Minister Ramvichar Netam was absent, prompted Minister Agrawal to respond on his behalf.

Questions surfaced regarding the allocation of funds from the 14th and 15th Finance Commissions or the Livestock Development Scheme for cow dung transportation. Agrawal affirmed that the funds were earmarked for transportation as per scheme guidelines.

Chandrakar persisted, seeking clarity on the rationale behind rate fixation. Agrawal defended the allocation of funds to the Gaushala Management Committee for cow dung transportation. Nevertheless, Chandrakar demanded a thorough investigation, casting doubt on the proper utilisation of funds.

Agrawal pledged an investigation, assuring oversight by senior officials. However, Chandrakar insisted on scrutiny by the legislative committee, demanding evidence of cow dung procurement and discrepancies in records.

Lata Usendi underscored irregularities in cow dung procurement, highlighting incongruities between procurement volumes and livestock ownership. She advocated for a meticulous investigation into the procurement process.

Dr Raman Singh concluded with a light-hearted suggestion of a breed-specific inquiry into the cows involved. Agrawal concurred to include cow dung in the investigation under the jurisdiction of the relevant committee, securing approval from Dr Raman Singh.

As the state awaits the outcome of the impending investigation, stakeholders anticipate a clearer understanding of the cow dung procurement controversy. It may be expected that the probe’s findings will not only shed light on the intricacies of governance practices but also set precedence for integrity and accountability in public service.