Deepak Baij, a tribal leader and Member of Parliament (MP) from Bastar, has been appointed as the head of Chhattisgarh Congress by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. The 41-year-old Baij replaces Mohan Markam, another tribal leader from Bastar, whose term as the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president ended last year.
This appointment is significant as it comes just months before the Assembly elections in Chhattisgarh and follows the elevation of T.S. Singh Deo, who is considered a political rival to Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, as the Deputy Chief Minister. It reflects the ruling party’s efforts to streamline its leadership and strengthen its position before the upcoming campaigning.
The appointment also comes in the midst of reported differences between Markam and Baghel over certain organizational decisions. Sources claim that Baghel was displeased with the organization for not supporting the government’s outreach initiatives. Kumari Selja, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) Chhattisgarh in-charge, had publicly announced the reversal of some of Markam’s decisions.
Baij, a first-time MP, was one of only two Congress candidates from Chhattisgarh to win seats in the 2019 general elections. He has previously served as a legislator for two terms and holds a degree in law and political science. Currently, he is a member of the Consultative Committee of the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs, having also served on the standing committees for External Affairs and Chemical and Fertilizers in the past.
The appointment of Deepak Baij as the head of Chhattisgarh Congress signals the party’s intent to strengthen its tribal leadership and address organizational issues ahead of the upcoming elections. With his experience, Baij is expected to bring new perspectives and contribute to the party’s campaign efforts. It remains to be seen how his appointment will impact the political landscape in Chhattisgarh and whether it will enhance the Congress party’s chances in the forthcoming elections.
