Digvijaya Singh Criticizes CM Mohan Yadav Over Ministerial Portfolios and Land Deal Allegations

NEW DELHI: In a pointed warning on Saturday, senior Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh raised concerns about the incumbent Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, describing his decision to retain 12 ministerial portfolios as a “big mistake.” Singh emphasized that such a concentration of power could render Yadav vulnerable to accountability should any irregularities arise within the departments he oversees.

Speaking to reporters, Singh conveyed, “Mohan Yadav ji, you have kept as many as 12 departments with yourself. You are making a big mistake… You will get into trouble. An official will commit an error, pocket the money, but you will be the one to get trapped.” The departments under Yadav’s oversight include general administration, home affairs, jail management, industrial policy, investment promotion, public relations, Narmada Valley development, aviation, mineral resources, public service management, and non-resident Indian (NRI) affairs.

Concerns Over Land Purchase Allegations

In his remarks, Singh also addressed inquiries regarding allegations linked to land purchases by members of Yadav’s family. He stated that he was investigating the alleged land scam to identify the companies involved and any additional parties potentially implicated.

Singh reminded Yadav of his humble origins, stating, “Chief Minister Yadav is the son of a mill worker, but he would not be spared if he committed any wrongdoing.” He further reflected on his own tenure, asserting that he faced no allegations throughout his decade in office.

Moreover, Singh claimed that Yadav’s predecessor, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, meticulously reviewed all documentation related to his administration and found no evidence of misconduct. “Mohan Yadav ji, you too can investigate. It makes no difference to me. Because I did not hold any department [that could be implicated],” he reaffirmed.

Political Message to the BJP

Additionally, Singh delivered a strong political message aimed at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. He declared, “Do not think you can buy us. We are not for sale. We are steadfast and unyielding. Those who were for sale have already left for the BJP. All the Congress members sitting here are steadfast. We are ready to fight.” This statement follows reports alleging land purchases by Yadav’s family and associated real estate firms.

Recent media outlets revealed that at least 137 plots covering 168 acres in Ujjain were purchased for approximately Rs 45 crore in the two years since December 2023. Most acquisitions occurred in areas that subsequently benefited from government-announced infrastructure projects and modifications to land-use regulations.