A minor disagreement over children making a social media reel near a sacred Tulsi plant escalated into a violent clash between two families in Kathadih BSUP Colony, leaving two women injured. The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, took a fresh turn on Wednesday when Bajrang Dal workers staged a protest by bringing a pig into the locality, heightening communal tensions in the area.

According to police, the trouble began around 8:30 pm on Sunday in Block No. 18 when children from a neighbouring family started filming a reel close to a Tulsi pot placed in the balcony of Parmila Sen’s house for worship. The children allegedly shook the plant pot, prompting Sen to intervene and request them to show respect for the sacred basil plant.

Argument Turns Ugly

What started as a verbal exchange quickly spiralled out of control. Sen alleged that soon after, Firdos Begum and her sister Saltanat Begum came out of their house and confronted her. The dispute turned physical, with Saltanat Begum allegedly assaulting Sen with a stick. Firdos Begum and Mehtab Khan also joined in, using blows and abuses, local police sources said.

The commotion drew neighbours to the spot. Pinky George, who tried to intervene and pacify the situation, was also attacked. She sustained injuries on her head and nose after being struck with a stick, according to the complaint filed by Parmila Sen at the Mujgahan police station.

Injuries and Police Action

Both injured women received medical attention for head injuries. Police registered a case against three individuals — Saltanat Begum, Firdos Begum, and Mehtab Khan — based on Sen’s complaint. Initial investigation indicates the clash stemmed from a seemingly trivial issue involving children and cultural sensitivities around the Tulsi plant, which holds religious significance for many Hindu households.

Officials reached the spot promptly on Sunday night and brought the immediate situation under control. No major law and order breakdown was reported at the time.

Bajrang Dal Protest Sparks Fresh Tension

The matter, however, refused to die down. On Wednesday night, Bajrang Dal activists reached the colony carrying a pig in protest against the alleged attack on the Tulsi plant and the residents. Their arrival created panic and tension in the mixed locality. The activists also performed recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa at the site.

Mujgahan police rushed to the area upon receiving information and managed to disperse the protesters, restoring calm. Authorities said they are monitoring the situation to prevent any further flare-up.

Background of the Locality

Kathadih BSUP Colony under the Mujgahan police station limits is a residential area with families from diverse communities living in close proximity. Such neighbourhoods often witness minor frictions that can quickly assume larger proportions when religious or cultural sentiments are involved. Similar incidents of localised disputes turning contentious have been reported in parts of Chhattisgarh in recent times, including a recent clash in Bhilai over a children’s quarrel that escalated into stone pelting.

Local residents expressed concern over the growing intolerance for minor issues. Many pointed out that social media trends and reel-making among youngsters sometimes overlook traditional sensitivities in shared living spaces.

Police Investigation Underway

Senior police officers confirmed that the case is being investigated thoroughly. “We have registered the FIR and appropriate action will be taken as per law,” a police official said. Both sides are being questioned to ascertain the exact sequence of events. Additional forces have been deployed in the area as a precautionary measure.

The incident has once again highlighted the delicate balance required in multi-community residential areas, where small misunderstandings can snowball if not addressed with care and mutual respect. Authorities have appealed to residents to maintain peace and cooperate with the investigation.

As the probe continues, residents hope the matter is resolved amicably without further escalation. Police have urged both parties to exercise restraint while legal proceedings move forward.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai chairs key cabinet meeting in Nava Raipur; new transfer policy and farmer-related proposals among major items expected to be cleared

Key Decisions Expected Today

A significant cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai is underway at the state secretariat in Nava Raipur, Raipur, with several major administrative and policy decisions likely to be formalised by day's end. The meeting has drawn considerable attention from government employees, farmers, and administrative circles alike.

Transfer Ban Likely to Be Lifted

The most closely watched agenda item is the proposed new transfer policy for state government officials and employees. The existing freeze on transfers is expected to be lifted following cabinet approval of the fresh policy framework. If cleared, large-scale postings and transfers across departments could begin shortly, ending months of administrative uncertainty for government staff across Chhattisgarh.

Farmers' Issues on the Table

Agricultural matters also figure prominently in the day's agenda. The cabinet is set to review paddy procurement at minimum support price for the upcoming Kharif marketing year, along with the custom milling policy. Additionally, the availability of fertilisers and seeds for farmers during the current Kharif season is expected to be assessed. Several proposals linked to farming and agriculture may also receive formal approval during the meeting.

CM Helpline 1076 Launches Today

Coinciding with the cabinet session, the state government is launching its much-anticipated CM Helpline 1076 service. The rollout follows the conclusion of Suhasaan Tihar, the state's governance outreach initiative. Through the toll-free number 1076, residents across Chhattisgarh can now register complaints and grievances directly with the government.

Beyond phone calls, the helpline will be accessible via a dedicated web portal, a mobile application, and WhatsApp — broadening access for citizens in urban and rural areas alike. Officials claim the multi-channel grievance system will significantly streamline problem resolution for ordinary residents.

Suhasaan Tihar Feedback Under Review

The cabinet is also expected to discuss feedback and complaints gathered during the Suhasaan Tihar programme. The exercise, aimed at bringing administration closer to citizens, generated considerable public input that the government now plans to act upon.

Broader Agenda Spans Multiple Sectors

Beyond transfers and agriculture, proposals related to employees, industry, and various government departments are lined up for clearance. According to sources in the secretariat, the meeting is being viewed as a pivotal one for setting the administrative direction in the months ahead — particularly in terms of governance reforms and pro-farmer policy moves.

State government officials indicated that the decisions taken today would have direct bearing on departmental functioning and public service delivery across Chhattisgarh.

Rajya Sabha MP fires up party cadre at Shaheed Smarak Bhavan, calls state government a "garbad engine"

Rajya Sabha MP and senior Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh on Monday addressed a workers' conference in Raipur, rallying party cadres with a combative message: fight for the public's rights without fear, even if it means jail. The event, held at Shaheed Smarak Bhavan in the state capital, drew a large turnout of AAP office-bearers and grassroots workers from across Chhattisgarh.

"Garbad Engine" Jibe at BJP

Singh came out swinging against both the state and central governments. Dismissing the BJP's "double engine government" narrative, he said Chhattisgarh is instead running on a "garbad engine" — a broken, dysfunctional setup that has failed ordinary citizens. He accused the ruling dispensation of allowing the state's mineral wealth to be plundered while residents continue to suffer from inflation, unemployment, and a crumbling healthcare system.

Forests and natural resources, he alleged, are being handed over to big industrialists, leaving local communities with little to show for the state's rich endowments.

Schools Shut, Youth Adrift

On education, Singh alleged that the BJP government has shut thousands of schools, directly harming the prospects of children from poorer families. He contrasted this with AAP's record in Delhi, pointing to the transformation of government schools and the Mohalla Clinic model as examples of what political will can achieve. "Ten years of Arvind Kejriwal's work in Delhi has shown what governance for the people actually looks like," he said, urging workers to carry that message to every village and booth in the state.

He pressed cadres to focus on expanding the organisation at the grassroots level, calling booth-level strengthening critical ahead of future elections.

Congress Not Spared

Singh's attack was not limited to the BJP. He argued that voters in Chhattisgarh have grown disillusioned with both established parties. "The public is looking for a third option," he said, positioning AAP as that alternative. The party, he indicated, will step up its organisational drive across the state in the months ahead.

Solidarity With D.Ed Candidates

After the conference, Singh drove to a protest site near Mana-Tuta where D.Ed degree holders have been agitating for a considerable period, demanding regularisation of their jobs or recruitment. He spent time listening to their grievances and pledged his support.

Acknowledging that the candidates have persisted through harsh weather conditions, Singh said the state government cannot afford to keep ignoring their demands. He advised the protesters to form a delegation of five to ten members to formally engage with the government and added that he would raise their issue in Parliament if necessary.

Senior Leadership Present

The workers' conference was also attended by Chhattisgarh in-charge Mukesh Ahlawat, co-in-charges Saurabh Jha and Samar Kumar, acting state president Uttam Jaiswal, along with Abhishek Mishra, Devalal Nareti, state general secretary Wadood Alam, and chief spokesperson Suraj Upadhyay, among others.

The gathering signals a renewed push by AAP to build serious electoral infrastructure in Chhattisgarh, a state where the party has yet to make a significant dent but is clearly investing in long-term presence.

The final evening of Kavya Kumbh in Raipur witnessed a blend of poetry, shayari and folk music, with Wasim Barelvi’s reflections and Mame Khan’s performance drawing enthusiastic crowds late into the night.

Raipur witnessed an evening of poetry, shayari and folk music stretching well past midnight as the concluding day of Kavya Kumbh brought together some of the country's noted literary and musical voices. Held at a school campus in Dunda on Sunday, the closing session, titled “Sangam”, drew a large audience despite a delayed start.

The programme began nearly two hours behind schedule, leaving many attendees waiting through the evening. However, the mood changed noticeably when veteran Urdu poet Wasim Barelvi arrived on stage. The audience responded with prolonged applause as the mushaira and poetry session got underway.

Literary Voices Gather

The final session featured prominent poets and shayars including Wasim Barelvi, Zubair Ali Tabish, Manika Dubey and Meer Ali Meer. Their recitations kept the audience engaged late into the night, with listeners remaining seated through extended performances despite the delay.

Speaking before presenting his poetry, Barelvi reflected on the role of literature in society. He said a balanced life requires a connection with literature and cultural traditions. Referring to his personal experiences, he remarked that good people have been both his weakness and his strength, a statement that resonated strongly with the audience.

Barelvi’s Shayari Draws Applause

Barelvi presented several of his well-known ghazals and couplets during the session. His verses on love, separation and human relationships received repeated appreciation from the gathering.

The veteran poet also spoke briefly about his health, noting that he usually does not remain at mushairas for long durations. Despite that, he expressed his desire to honour the sentiments of the audience and participate in the programme.

Tabish Connects With Audience

Popular shayar Zubair Ali Tabish presented a new ghazal that explored themes of struggle, memory and resilience. His simple yet evocative verses struck a chord with listeners, many of whom responded with appreciative applause throughout the recital.

The poetry segment maintained a steady pace through the evening, with each performer bringing a distinct style to the stage. Organisers described the session as one of the highlights of the festival's concluding day.

Alok Shrivastava’s Special Reading

As the night progressed, poet Alok Shrivastava also took the stage. Owing to delays in the schedule, his widely recognised “Aloknama” presentation could not be accommodated.

Instead, he recited a Hindi translation of the Shiv Tandav Stotra. The performance was warmly received by the audience. Shrivastava lightened the atmosphere by joking that the presentation should be treated as a “starter”, promising to return next year with a fuller performance.

Midnight Energy Shift

The atmosphere at the venue took a different turn around 12.30 am when celebrated Rajasthani folk singer Mame Khan arrived on stage. By then, many in the audience had been waiting specifically for his performance.

The singer opened with the iconic folk number “Kesariya Balam Aavo Sa Padharo Mhare Des”. Within minutes, audience members could be seen singing along and moving to the rhythm. The combination of folk and Sufi influences created an energetic atmosphere across the venue.

‘Chaudhary’ Steals The Show

As the performance progressed, repeated requests came from the audience for Khan’s popular song “Chaudhary”. Before performing it, the singer joked that the song had effectively become his “Aadhaar card”, drawing laughter from the crowd.

The song proved to be one of the biggest moments of the night, with young attendees, families and senior citizens joining in the celebration. Khan also interacted directly with the audience, at one point tossing T-shirts into the crowd, prompting excitement among younger fans.

His performance concluded around 1.20 am, bringing the musical segment to a close and marking the end of this year’s Kavya Kumbh. Organisers and attendees alike described the finale as a memorable conclusion to a festival that celebrated literature, poetry and folk traditions in equal measure.

The strong turnout and enthusiastic response on the final day underlined the growing popularity of Kavya Kumbh as a cultural event in Raipur.

A youth was allegedly stabbed to death in Mandir Hasaud near Raipur following a dispute linked to suspected communication with his sister. The incident triggered vandalism and arson at the accused's residence.

Late-Night Murder Shocks Area

A young man was allegedly stabbed to death by two of his friends in the Mandir Hasaud area on the outskirts of Raipur late on Friday night, police said. The killing sparked tension in the locality, with angry residents later attacking the accused's house and setting a vehicle on fire.

The deceased, identified as Toshak Bharti, sustained serious injuries during the assault and was rushed to a hospital in Arang. However, doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Dispute Led to Violence

According to police officials, preliminary investigation suggests the incident stemmed from a personal dispute involving a minor accused. Toshak reportedly suspected that his sister was in contact with the juvenile, which had led to disagreements between the two sides in recent days.

Police said Toshak, the juvenile and another accused, identified as Karan Dhruv, were known to each other and were friends. Before the incident, all three had reportedly been together.

The confrontation turned violent near a water tank close to Palaud Chowk around 9 pm on May 29. During the altercation, Toshak was allegedly assaulted and stabbed.

Family Lodges Complaint

The victim's mother, Saraswati Bharti, filed a complaint at Mandir Hasaud police station. In her statement, she alleged that Karan Dhruv and the juvenile attacked her son and inflicted knife injuries during the fight.

Following the complaint, police registered a case of murder and began an investigation. Authorities have taken both accused into custody, including the juvenile, and further questioning is underway.

Villagers React in Anger

News of the killing spread quickly through the area, drawing a large crowd to the scene. Witnesses said residents gathered near the accused's residence and expressed anger over the incident.

During the unrest, portions of the accused's property were damaged. A vehicle parked outside the house was also set ablaze. Police personnel rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control before it escalated further.

Officials said separate action is being initiated against those involved in vandalism and property damage.

Security Measures Tightened

Given the tense atmosphere, additional police deployment was made in parts of Mandir Hasaud. Authorities have appealed to residents to maintain peace and allow the investigation to proceed.

Police confirmed that the body was sent for post-mortem examination and forensic evidence has been collected from the crime scene. Investigators are also examining the sequence of events leading up to the fatal attack.

Second Murder Case in Days

The latest incident comes amid heightened concern in Mandir Hasaud, where another murder case was recently solved by police.

Just a day before the stabbing case came to light, investigators had announced a breakthrough in the killing of Bhubneshwar Yadav, who had gone missing on May 22. Police arrested three accused, including local independent councillor Nohar Das alias Golu Ratre, in connection with that case.

According to investigators, Yadav was allegedly killed following a dispute related to water and an argument near a liquor outlet. His body was later transported to Mahasamund district and buried in sand near the Mahanadi river to conceal evidence.

Investigation Continues

With two serious murder cases emerging from the Mandir Hasaud region within a short span, law enforcement agencies are under pressure to ensure swift action and maintain public confidence.

Police said the investigation into Toshak Bharti's killing remains ongoing, and further legal proceedings will follow based on evidence collected during the probe. The Mandir Hasaud murder case has once again raised concerns about escalating interpersonal disputes turning into deadly violence.

Key accused Mohammad Nasir Hussain, arrested from Uttar Pradesh, confesses to burglaries across multiple states; police used disguises to track down the gang.

Gang Used Hospital Parking as Safe House

A sophisticated inter-state burglary gang that operated between Raipur and Bhilai-Durg has been busted after Durg Police remanded the alleged mastermind and extracted crucial confessions, officials confirmed. The accused, Mohammad Nasir Hussain alias Anas Khan, revealed during questioning that stolen tools and the gang's vehicle were being concealed in the parking lot of Raipur's Mekahaara Hospital complex — a busy public space deliberately chosen to avoid suspicion.

Acting on the disclosure, a police team accompanied the accused to the location and recovered specialised burglary tools stashed beneath the seat of an Activa scooter (CG10 AG 4136), which was parked there routinely after each operation.

From Bhilai to Raipur, Back Before Dawn

According to investigators, the gang followed a calculated routine. Members would ride the Activa from Raipur to Bhilai or Durg, carry out the theft, and return to Raipur the same night. The scooter would then be quietly parked at Mekahaara and the tools concealed inside it — keeping the gang's movements largely off the radar.

"They specifically used the hospital parking because of the constant footfall. A parked scooter there wouldn't draw attention for days," a senior police official said.

The gang's method inside targeted homes was equally methodical. They would first conduct reconnaissance of locked houses, vacant flats, and residential colonies. Once satisfied, they would break door locks to gain entry and use custom-fabricated tools to crack open almirahs and lockers inside.

Custom Tools, Made to Order

Among the items seized — spanners, screwdrivers, cutters, iron rods, and lock-breaking implements — investigators found several tools that were not off-the-shelf. Nasir Hussain admitted during interrogation that he had commissioned a local blacksmith to craft specific instruments designed for breaking heavy-duty locks, safes, and cabinet latches.

The recovery of these custom tools has given police a clearer picture of the gang's level of preparation and intent. Initial reports indicate that the tools had been used across multiple crime scenes.

Police Went Undercover to Reach the Mastermind

Tracking the gang was no straightforward exercise. Sources within the Durg Police said that officers adopted disguises at different stages of the investigation — posing as a goat trader and a census worker to gather intelligence without alerting the suspects. In one reported instance, a police team even conducted a mock goat sale in Delhi to maintain cover while gathering information on the accused's whereabouts.

Nasir Hussain was eventually arrested from Uttar Pradesh after a sustained surveillance operation across state lines.

Criminal Trail Across Multiple States

Interrogation has revealed a trail of offences stretching well beyond Chhattisgarh. The accused has confessed to involvement in thefts in Bhopal, Indore, Chhindwara, and Chandigarh. Police records confirm that cases against him are already registered at Govindpura and Kohefiza police stations in Bhopal, at the Bhopal Crime Branch, at Palasia police station in Indore, and at multiple stations in Chandigarh.

The breadth of his criminal record suggests the gang was active for a considerable period before Durg Police began closing in.

Investigation Ongoing

Durg Police said further questioning is underway to identify other members of the gang and determine the full extent of their operations in the region. Efforts are on to link the recovered tools and vehicle to specific unsolved theft cases across the states mentioned.

A 49-year-old businessman from Raipur lost his life to a heart attack in Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon, while on an educational tour with a group of 40 Indians. Ajay Sundar Nihalani’s sudden death has left his family in shock and triggered urgent appeals to bring his mortal remains back home.

The incident occurred during the ongoing tour in which Nihalani, along with another Raipur resident, had joined participants from different parts of the country. According to initial information, his health suddenly deteriorated. He was rushed to a hospital but could not be saved. 

Family Seeks Embassy and PMO Help

Family members have reached out to the Indian Embassy in Portugal, the Prime Minister’s Office, and local authorities for assistance in completing formalities and repatriating the body. Nihalani’s colleague Neeraj Bajpai, who is part of the same tour group, is currently handling the documentation process on the ground. 

Sources familiar with the matter said the family is hopeful of early cooperation from Indian officials and airlines to ensure the body reaches Raipur at the earliest for last rites. 

Community Leaders Raise Appeal on Social Media

Lalit Jaisingh, state president of the Sindhi Council of India, took to social media platform X, tagging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the PMO, seeking immediate intervention for the smooth repatriation of Nihalani’s mortal remains. 

Shock and Grief in Raipur

News of the death has spread sorrow across business and social circles in Raipur. Nihalani had celebrated his birthday on January 19 this year. Friends and relatives described him as an active and energetic person. His brother Sanjay Kumar Nihalani expressed the family’s distress and hope that the body would be brought back soon. 

Pattern of Sudden Cardiac Deaths Raises Concern

Nihalani’s death is the latest in a string of heart attack cases reported from Raipur and nearby areas in recent months, many involving seemingly fit individuals. 

Just three months ago, a local businessman collapsed and died while playing badminton. In May 2025, 35-year-old Himanshu Shrivastava, a manager in a private company residing in Khushi Enclave, Amli Dih, suffered a fatal heart attack after a badminton session at Sapre Shala School in Bhilai. He was declared dead at Mekahara Hospital. 

In February 2025, Chhattisgarh actor and BJP leader Rajesh Awasthi, 41, also died of a sudden heart attack. He left behind a young son and daughter. Similar incidents were reported from Ambikapur, including a young bus operator Indrajeet Singh Babra (35) who collapsed while starting his scooter, and another case of a youth suffering a heart attack while riding a bike. 

Doctors Flag Lifestyle and Post-Covid Factors

Dr. Smit Shrivastava, Head of the Department of Cardiology at Mekahara Hospital, told reporters that tobacco and gutkha consumption remain major risk factors in most heart patients in the region. He noted that in nearly 50 per cent of cases, the first heart attack itself proves fatal. 

Increased cholesterol levels leading to blockages in heart arteries are the primary cause, he explained. When blockages exceed 70 per cent, blood flow gets severely restricted, resulting in a heart attack. 

Common warning signs include chest pain, heaviness, left shoulder or arm pain, and shortness of breath. However, in many cases, especially among younger people, symptoms are absent, leading to sudden deaths. Doctors advise immediate medical consultation if any doubt arises. 

Questions are being raised locally whether post-Covid effects, sedentary lifestyles, or stress are contributing to this worrying trend among relatively young and fit individuals. 

Body Expected to Reach Raipur Soon

As of now, formalities are underway in Lisbon. Once the required documentation is completed, Ajay Sundar Nihalani’s body is expected to be flown back to Raipur. The family has urged all concerned agencies to extend full support to Neeraj Bajpai so that the last rites can be performed without further delay. 

The incident has once again highlighted the need for greater awareness about heart health, regular check-ups, and lifestyle modifications, even among those who appear outwardly healthy. 

Thieves broke into a manager's locked home in Tatibandh's Parthivi Pacific, making off with jewellery and cash worth ₹5.55 lakh while the family was away

Broad Daylight Strike

A brazen daytime burglary has rattled residents of Parthivi Pacific, a gated colony in Tatibandh, Raipur, after unidentified thieves broke into a locked flat and escaped with gold and silver jewellery along with cash — totalling nearly ₹5.55 lakh. The incident, which falls under the Amanaka police station limits, came to light on Thursday afternoon and has since triggered unease across several neighbouring residential complexes.

The targeted flat belongs to Swapneshwar Harichandhan, a manager employed at Godawari Power and Ispat Limited in Siltara. According to the complaint filed, his wife and children had left for their native village in Odisha for the summer holidays. Harichandhan locked his Daffodil Block residence in the morning before leaving for work — as he does on any ordinary day.

Returned to a Ransacked Home

Around 3 in the afternoon, when he came back, the main door was visibly forced open. Inside, the bedroom told a worse story. The Godrej almirah had been broken into, the locker pried open, and the contents cleared out. Whoever had entered knew exactly where to look.

Initial reports indicate the thieves worked quickly and left without drawing attention — a pattern, police note, that is increasingly common in organised residential burglaries.

What Was Taken

The list of stolen items, as reported by the victim to Amanaka police, includes gold rings, a mangalsutra, six pairs of earrings, a child's gold bangle, a locket, gold bangles, silver anklets, toe rings, a silver bowl and spoon set, silver coins, and ₹5,000 in cash. The combined value of the haul has been estimated at ₹5.55 lakh.

Footage Being Reviewed

Police reached the spot shortly after receiving the complaint. Teams are currently reviewing CCTV footage from cameras installed in and around the colony. According to officials, a case has been registered against unidentified accused and the investigation is underway. No arrests have been made so far.

Sources familiar with the matter said police are also speaking to local contacts and checking entry-exit movement from the colony during the afternoon window.

Fear Grips the Neighbourhood

The incident has left Parthivi Pacific and surrounding colonies unsettled. Residents, many of whom are working professionals with families frequently away, say the timing — midday, in a guarded complex — is what concerns them most.

Local residents have demanded increased police patrolling in the area and a review of the existing security arrangement at the colony gate. Several have raised the matter with the resident welfare association as well.

Amanaka police have assured that surveillance will be stepped up while the probe continues.

Officials scramble as second blaze in three days raises safety concerns; Bijapur DFO removed following Rs 10 crore loss

A government tendu leaf warehouse in Bastar's Sargipal area went up in flames on Wednesday evening, destroying nearly 1,000 sacks of stored leaves. The incident marks the second major fire at a tendu leaf storage facility in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region within just three days.

Firefighting teams and forest department personnel took several hours to bring the blaze under control. No casualties have been reported.

Stock from Sukma destroyed

The gutted stock belonged to neighbouring Sukma district and was approximately one year old, according to forest department officials. It had been kept at the Sargipal facility for safekeeping.

Initial assessments suggest a short circuit may have triggered the fire, though officials said investigations are still underway. "The exact cause will be confirmed only after a thorough inspection," a forest department source told reporters on condition of anonymity.

Bijapur fire loss crosses Rs 10 crore

Monday's fire at a private tendu leaf warehouse in Bijapur district has turned out to be far more devastating. Approximately 18,000 sacks were reduced to ashes, with initial damage estimates crossing Rs 10 crore.

The Bijapur incident has triggered administrative action. State forest minister Kedarnath Kashyap held a high-level review meeting following the blaze, after which Bijapur Divisional Forest Officer Ramesh Kumar Jangade was removed from his post.

Sagar Jadhav has been appointed as the new DFO. Officials have been directed to conduct an impartial investigation into the matter.

Insurance angle under scrutiny

Authorities are now examining whether the massive stock losses are linked to any insurance claim irregularities. Tendu leaf inventories of this scale are typically insured, raising questions about possible foul play.

Forest department officials confirmed they will investigate whether the warehouses had adequate safety measures in place, if the tendu leaf stock was properly insured, and what precisely caused both fires.

So far, no official confirmation has emerged regarding any insurance connection.

What happens next

Forest department teams remain at both sites conducting damage assessments. Officials said enhanced safety protocols for tendu leaf storage facilities across the region are likely to be reviewed in the coming days.

The back-to-back incidents have also raised concerns among tendu leaf collectors and local stakeholders who depend on the trade for their livelihoods. Tendu leaves are a major non-timber forest produce in Chhattisgarh, forming a crucial source of income for thousands of families in Bastar division.

Brijmohan Agrawal Slams Officials Over Rampant Illegal Liquor Sales in Raipur

BJP MP Brijmohan Agrawal on Monday came down heavily on police and excise officials for failing to curb the open sale of illegal liquor in several parts of the state capital. Speaking at a Suhasan Tihar outreach camp in Zone-5, Ashwini Nagar, the sitting Raipur South MP warned authorities to take strict action against even influential people involved in the illicit trade.

The incident, which took place on May 18, has gone viral on social media after a video of the MP’s strong remarks surfaced. Agrawal, known for his no-nonsense approach during public grievance meetings, did not hold back while addressing senior officials present on stage.

Strong Warning to Police and Excise Dept

Pointing out specific localities, Agrawal named Bhathagaon, Mathpurena, Changora Bhatha, Santoshi Nagar, and Tikrapara as hotspots where illegal liquor is being sold openly. “We know where the liquor is being sold. Don’t you (police) know?” he asked pointedly.

He further instructed officials, “Even if a big person is involved, pick him up and lock him. No bail for three months. Just do it. Why aren’t you sealing these places?”

The MP stressed that stopping the illegal liquor mafia was essential for maintaining law and order and public health in the city.

Mayor Meenal Chaubey Present on Stage

Raipur Mayor Meenal Chaubey was also present on the dais during the event. The public gathering saw residents raising multiple civic issues, but the discussion on illegal liquor clearly dominated the proceedings.

This is not the first time Agrawal has taken officials to task during Suhasan Tihar camps. Just days earlier, in a similar programme held at Samoda Nagar Panchayat in Arang, he had publicly reprimanded a Naib Tehsildar after receiving multiple complaints against him. That video too went viral, with locals cheering the MP’s direct approach.

Growing Concern Over Illicit Liquor Trade

Illegal liquor trade has been a long-standing problem in parts of Raipur, especially in semi-urban and resettlement colonies. Residents often complain of bootleggers operating with impunity, sometimes allegedly under political or police protection. The easy availability of cheap spurious liquor has also been linked to rising cases of addiction, domestic violence, and health hazards in lower-income areas.

Agrawal’s public outburst reflects mounting pressure on the administration to act decisively ahead of possible local body and other elections. By naming specific areas, the MP has put the onus directly on the ground-level machinery to deliver results.

Officials Yet to Respond Formally

As of now, neither the Raipur police nor the excise department has issued any official statement on the MP’s remarks. However, sources indicated that senior officers have taken note of the areas mentioned and are likely to intensify raids in the coming days.

The Suhasan Tihar initiative, promoted by the state government, aims to bring governance closer to citizens by holding weekly grievance redressal camps. While these platforms have helped many resolve local issues, they have also become venues where public representatives openly pull up errant officials.

Public Reaction Positive

Local residents in the affected areas welcomed Agrawal’s strong stand. Many said they had been complaining about illegal liquor dens for months without any visible action. “When an MP raises the issue publicly, hopefully something will move now,” said a resident of Santosh Nagar who did not wish to be named.

The repeated public criticism by the MP also highlights the disconnect that sometimes exists between political leadership and ground-level enforcement machinery in Chhattisgarh’s capital.

As the video continues to circulate widely, expectations have risen that the administration will launch a sustained drive against illegal liquor operators in the coming weeks.

Kachna railway overbridge opening: Relief for 3 lakh commuters in Raipur after 8 years

Long wait ends today

The long-standing traffic woes of over three lakh residents in Raipur are set to end this evening as the Kachna railway overbridge opens to the public after an eight-year delay. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai will officially inaugurate the newly constructed overbridge at 6 PM today, throwing it open for regular vehicular movement immediately after the ceremony.

Final preparations, including the installation and testing of streetlights, continued late into Thursday night to ensure the structure was ready for the high-profile launch. While the blacktopping and structural work were wrapped up by May 7, finishing touches were being given until the last minute.

Traffic diversion announced

Local authorities have issued a traffic advisory ahead of the inauguration ceremony. Vehicle movement on the Khamhardih-Kachna road will remain diverted between 5 PM and 8 PM today to facilitate the event.

Commuters travelling from Anupam Nagar to Kachna are advised to take the Shriram Nagar overbridge route via the BSNL office. Similarly, traffic heading towards Khamhardih from Kachna will be rerouted through the same detour. Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Arun Sao, local MLAs, and municipal corporators are scheduled to attend the event alongside the Chief Minister.

End to frequent bottlenecks

The Kachna railway crossing had become one of the worst traffic bottlenecks in the city due to a massive surge in rail traffic over the last decade. According to railway data, nearly 120 passenger and freight trains pass through this section every 24 hours.

“The gate used to close every 15 minutes on average, leading to massive tailbacks on both sides,” said a regular commuter from the area.

During peak hours, hundreds of motorists, school buses, and emergency vehicles found themselves stranded in the scorching heat and monsoon downpours. The opening of the Kachna railway overbridge opening will eliminate these frequent operational halts entirely.

Changing footprint of Raipur

When the PWD initially conceptualized the project nearly eight years ago, Kachna was largely considered the outer periphery of Raipur with manageable traffic volume. However, rapid urban expansion has transformed the landscape.

The area has seen an explosion of residential projects, housing thousands of families. Major residential pockets, including VIP State, Ashoka Ratan, Kachna Housing Board, Baradera, Jora, Chandinagar, Parvati Nagar, and Bhavna Nagar, which were hit hardest by the daily delays, stand to benefit directly from this infrastructure upgrade.

Project cost and specifications

Built at an estimated cost of ₹35 crore, the new two-lane overbridge spans a total length of 871 meters and features a width of 12 meters. The structure originates just past the CSEB office in Khamhardih and terminates near the Housing Board Colony in Kachna, providing a seamless bypass over the busy railway tracks.

Better connectivity ahead

The commissioning of the Kachna bridge ties into a broader infrastructure push targeting Raipur’s eastern and northern sectors. The state government is already planning an ambitious 14.7-km Expressway-2 project connecting Mova to Jora.

Estimated to cut travel time to Nawa Raipur and the airport down to just 10 minutes, the proposed corridor will feature double-decker flyovers to bypass seven major traffic intersections, signaling a major overhaul for the city's transport network.

Raipur Jeweller Employee Steals Gold Worth Over ₹2 Crore

Employee Absconds with Jewellery Instead of Depositing in Locker

In a shocking case of internal theft, a long-time employee of a reputed jewellery shop in Raipur's Sadar Bazaar allegedly stole gold ornaments valued at more than ₹2 crore. The incident has left the business owner stunned, as the accused had been working at the shop for 16 years and was entrusted with daily closing responsibilities.

Police have registered a case of embezzlement against the employee, identified as Suraj Sahu, and are actively searching for him. CCTV footage of the incident has surfaced, showing the employee carrying away the jewellery.

Trusted Employee Betrays Faith

The victim, businessman Suresh Bhansali, owns Manoharmal & Company, a well-known gold and silver trading shop in Sadar Bazaar under the Purani Basti police station limits. According to police, Sahu was responsible for displaying jewellery during the day and securing it in the locker before the shop closed.

On April 9, 2026, after the shop shut for the day around evening, Sahu reportedly took the ornaments with him instead of placing them in the locker. The theft went unnoticed initially due to his long association with the business.

Stock Discrepancy Triggers Probe

The matter came to light on April 13 during a routine stock matching exercise. A significant shortfall was detected—1495 grams and 670 milligrams of gold jewellery missing. Bhansali immediately questioned all staff members, but none provided any leads.

Suspicion grew after reviewing CCTV footage from the shop. The recording clearly showed Sahu at around 4:21 PM on April 9, collecting and taking away multiple pieces of gold jewellery of various designs.

CCTV Footage Exposes the Theft

The visuals, now with investigators, have become the primary evidence. Police sources said the stolen items include assorted gold ornaments whose market value is estimated at over ₹2 crore. The precise valuation is still being ascertained based on current gold rates and designs.

Kotwali Inspector Satish Singh confirmed that a formal complaint was lodged by the shop owner. A case has been registered, and teams have been dispatched to trace the accused, who is currently absconding. One suspect has been taken into custody for questioning, officials added.

Long Association Raises Questions

Sahu’s 16-year tenure at the shop has surprised both police and the business community. Colleagues described him as a familiar face who enjoyed the trust of the owner. This breach has prompted many local jewellers to review their internal security protocols, especially regarding staff responsibilities during closing hours.

Local traders in Sadar Bazaar expressed concern over rising incidents of theft in the jewellery sector. Just weeks earlier, another shop in the city, Lakshya Jewellers in Khamhardih, reported a similar late-night burglary involving gold and silver items worth around ₹1 crore.

Police Intensify Search

Investigating teams are checking possible hideouts of the accused and analysing technical evidence, including CCTV footage and call records. Inspector Singh stated that efforts are underway to recover the stolen gold and arrest Sahu at the earliest.

“Initial investigation points towards planned action. We are pursuing multiple leads,” a police officer familiar with the case said.

Authorities have appealed to the public for any information regarding Sahu’s whereabouts. Meanwhile, the shop owner has requested strict action and speedy recovery of the valuables.

Impact on Local Jewellery Trade

This incident comes at a time when gold prices remain high, making such thefts particularly lucrative yet damaging for businesses. For shop owners in busy markets like Sadar Bazaar, it highlights vulnerabilities in reliance on long-serving staff without additional safeguards.

Police investigations continue, and further details are expected in the coming days as teams track financial trails and possible buyers of the stolen jewellery.

The case has once again underscored the need for better surveillance, regular audits, and background checks even for trusted employees in the jewellery business.