Politics over rice in Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh, popularly known as the rice bowl of central India, is witnessing politics over the food grain with ruling BJP and main opposition Congress trying to attract voters through it.

BJP and Congress have offered to provide rice at minimal cost to a select group of people if they are voted to power in this poll-bound state.

Congress has declared in manifesto to give 35 kg of rice free of cost to people Below Poverty Line (BPL) and Above Poverty Line (excluding income tax payee) if they form government in the state.

Whereas, ruling BJP is relying on its much-touted transparent public distribution system and subsidised rice to people under Antyodaya (extremely poor) and BPL category.

BJP ruled Chhattisgarh government is already providing rice at Rs 1 and Rs 2 per kg to people of Antyodaya and BPL category respectively.It promises to provide rice at Rs 1 per kg to poor people in its manifesto.

"Rice has always been a matter of politics here.People belonging to Antyodaya, BPL and APL categories will be provided 35 kgs of free rice every month if we are voted to power," said Amit Jogi, son of veteran Congress leader and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Ajit Jogi, who is contesting Assembly election from Marwahi constituency.

BJP supporters are trying to woo voters over rice too.

"We will provide a kg of rice at Rs 1. People of all categories will be able to take its benefit," said a state BJP leader.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh, who is popularly known as "Chhaur (rice in Chhattisgarhi language) Wale Babe" in the state for providing the food item at an affordable price for poor, is seeking mandate for third consecutive time.

With elections in 72 assembly constituencies of Chhattisgarh are scheduled for polling on November 19, politics over rice could be an important factor for both BJP and fraction-ridden Congress.

Villagers in this poll-bound state express satisfaction over BJP government PDS scheme and state food security act aimed at providing subsidised food items to poor.

"Most people of Chhattisgarh are tribal.BJP government has been providing rice at an affordable price to all.It is a good step," said Nankiram Sahu, a rice mill worker.

Congress is also advertising benefits to people under National Food Security Act.