Tensions flared in Raipur on Saturday as the municipal administration demolished shops at the Science College ground Chaupati, triggering a major clash between BJP and Congress leaders. Heavy police deployment was required as both sides engaged in heated arguments and physical scuffles. Congress leader and former MLA Vikas Upadhyay, along with several party workers, was detained while protesting the demolition.
Following the action, BJP MLA and former minister Rajesh Munat held a press conference revealing what he called the “real reason” behind the removal. Munat said the BJP had opposed the Chaupati project from the start, arguing that the land was designated as an education hub. He stated that the original plan included stationery shops, computer centres and a library, not food stalls.
Munat further alleged that Congress leaders had financial dealings with Chaupati operators and were shielding an “illegal setup.” He added that a tender for a 1,000-seater library had already been finalised.
Earlier, Vikas Upadhyay staged an overnight sit-in at the site and even lay down in front of the demolition crane, accusing the government of acting out of “political vendetta.”
