The Congress has released the names of BJP leaders who received the first instalment of money under the Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay scheme and asked them to return it to the Chief Minister Relief Fund (CMRF) if they were opposed to payment in instalments.

Making public the names, Congress party communication department member R.P. Singh raised the demand for the money's return, particularly from former Chief Minister Raman Singh and Leader of Opposition in the state assembly Dharamlal Kaushik besides other BJP leaders.

“Why do BJP leaders have so much disdain towards the farmers? The farmers are the true sons of the soil and have always been food providers. If they are prosperous, the state and its people will also thrive,” R.P. Singh said.

He alleged that promises were not fulfilled when the BJP ruled Chhattisgarh.

"When Rs 170 bonus was given, it was given in two instalments. When it was Rs 220, then also it was given in instalments. So why this opposition for giving money in instalments now though money is being received by farmers.”

The Congress leader added: “The Central government, under Prime Minister Krishak Samman Scheme for 5 acre holding farmers, gives just Rs 6,000 per year, which is given in three instalments of Rs 2000 each. The state's Nyay scheme gives Rs 50,000 to 5 acre holding farmer, in four instalments, which is better.”

If BJP leaders have any moral, they must return the money they have got under Nyay scheme to CMRF so that it can be used to fight the Covid-19 menace in the state.

BJP leader Dharamlal Kaushik said: “The BJP ruled the state for 15 years under Raman Singh but never differentiated farmers on political grounds nor did it ever reveal details of who received what amount both in paddy procurement and bonus.”

“The Congress is indulging in petty politics by revealing the names and classifying farmers on political grounds that also in media.” he added.