Justice or Optics? Chhattisgarh DMF: Praise vs Misuse

Chhattisgarh’s DMF Model Earns National Acclaim Amid Lingering Shadows of Past Misuse

New Delhi/Raipur, July 10 — Chhattisgarh’s District Mineral Foundation (DMF) efforts have drawn nationwide attention and appreciation, with the Union Ministry of Mines recognizing the state for its exemplary implementation of the scheme meant to transform the lives of those affected by mining activities. However, even as the state basks in praise, questions loom over alleged misuse of DMF funds during the previous Bhupesh Baghel-led Congress government.

National Recognition for DMF Excellence

In a major boost to its development image, Chhattisgarh was presented a certificate of appreciation by Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy during the National DMF Workshop held in New Delhi. The state was lauded for its high-impact implementation of DMF-funded projects aimed at improving education, healthcare, drinking water, livelihoods, and infrastructure in mining-affected areas.

The scale of operations is significant:

• ₹16,506 crore worth of development works approved
• Over 1.01 lakh projects sanctioned, with more than 70,000 completed
• More than 90% of audit reports uploaded on both state and national DMF portals

This level of transparency and scale has made Chhattisgarh a national model for other mineral-rich states.

Strengths of the DMF Strategy

The current DMF strategy has been widely applauded for its:

• Data Transparency: Real-time reporting on portals builds public trust and enhances accountability.
• Strategic Local Planning: Projects are district-specific, balancing physical infrastructure with social empowerment.
• Inclusive Growth: Focus areas span across health, education, water, and sustainable livelihoods in vulnerable regions.
• Capacity Building: The DMF framework now supports inter-state learning and strategic workshops.

Policy experts believe this model supports the Prime Minister’s vision for equitable and inclusive development, particularly in regions stressed by mining activities.

Lingering Concerns from the Baghel Era

Despite the accolades, the past casts a long shadow. During the Congress government led by former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, there were serious allegations of misappropriation and political misuse of DMF funds.

Key issues flagged included:

• Audit and CAG Observations indicating diversion of funds to urban and non-welfare projects
• Alleged Nexus between political leaders and local contractors, raising red flags over favoritism
• Opaque Governance: Limited or delayed updates on DMF portals previously sparked criticism from civil society
• Public Outcry: Opposition parties accused the Baghel government of running a "parallel treasury" under the guise of welfare

These concerns dented the credibility of the DMF initiative during that time and left a legacy of mistrust among affected communities.

New Government’s Pledge: Reform and Reckoning?

Under BJP's Vishnu Deo Sai-led administration, a new narrative of clean governance is taking shape. While the current achievements are commendable, there is growing pressure on the government to address the past and take decisive action.

The BJP government's possible next steps may include:

• Re-audit of DMF Projects initiated during the Baghel government
• Investigations and Probes into financial irregularities and beneficiary lists
• Institutional Reforms such as creating an independent DMF monitoring body

Political Optics and Strategic Balancing

For the BJP, revisiting DMF corruption under Congress could serve both as a governance imperative and a political weapon. However, analysts caution that over-politicization without results could backfire. The public expects accountability, not just rhetoric.

 
A Critical Crossroads: Justice or Just Optics?

As Chhattisgarh earns recognition for its present-day transparency, a deeper question remains unanswered:

Will the Vishnu Deo Sai government take meaningful action against those who allegedly misused public funds during the Baghel era—or will past corruption be buried under the weight of present accolades?

The answer could define not only the credibility of DMF governance but also the moral compass of Chhattisgarh’s political future.

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