The Chhattisgarh government on Thursday initiated the process of renewing the existing 77 lakh ration card holders in the state. The campaign will run till February 29.

Citizens are encouraged to actively participate in the renewal process with the help of a user-friendly mobile app developed by the state food department, officials said.

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This undertaking encompasses the replacement of ration cards issued during the previous Congress-led government in Chhattisgarh, featuring prominently images of former chief minister Bhupesh Baghel and minister Amarjeet Bhagat.

Political analysts note the strategic timing of this initiative by the BJP government, suggesting its potential impact on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, particularly for the BJP.

The campaign had prompted the state government to issue detailed directives to all collectors on January 19. Collectors are entrusted with creating awareness at various levels, including value shops and gram panchayats, to ensure a seamless and well-informed renewal process. Special provisions have been introduced for residents in Bastar district who lack mobile connectivity.

The BJP-led government is also providing special assistance to the elderly or physically disabled individuals who have not completed their e-KYC. The mobile app offers a convenient solution, allowing beneficiaries to scan the existing QR code for instant access to application details from the Food Department’s comprehensive database.

It is important to note that the renewal process for Antyodaya, priority, destitute, and disabled category ration cards will be entirely free of charge. For general category cardholders, a fee of Rs 10 has been set for renewal through the app.

Meanwhile, the opposition Congress expressed concern over the incident, accusing the BJP of potentially inconveniencing the public for political gain.

Sushil Anand Shukla, the head of the Congress communication department, criticized the BJP government’s decision to issue new ration cards to the citizens of Chhattisgarh. He said the state is misusing substantial funds from the state treasury merely to add the photographs of BJP leaders into the ration cards. He added that the state government is not ready to address the significant issues facing the common man.