Government's U-Turn on Nagarnar Steel Plant Privatization Sparks Controversy

The Congress party has accused the government of reneging on its promise to retain the Nagarnar Steel Plant in public hands. Despite assurances from top political leaders, the Union Ministry of Finance is reportedly moving forward with plans to privatize the steel plant in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region. This has drawn criticism from both Congress and BJP figures.

The Congress party has alleged that the government is poised to privatize the Nagarnar Steel Plant in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, breaking earlier promises to keep it under public ownership. The party's general secretary in-charge communications, Jairam Ramesh, highlighted the issue in a social media post, referencing a media report suggesting that the Union Ministry of Finance will invite financial bids for NMDC Steel (NSL) within the next two months.

Ramesh pointed out that Prime Minister had assured locals on October 3, 2023, that the plant would remain the property of the people of Bastar. However, by October 19, 2023, Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated this stance. Despite these assurances, the prospect of privatization remains, according to Ramesh.

Both former BJP chief minister Raman Singh and current Congress chief minister Bhupesh Baghel have objected to selling the plant. Ramesh emphasized that these political leaders have consistently opposed the privatization, citing letters and discussions with the Prime Minister dating back to 2017.

(With inputs from agencies.)