Demolition of tribals’ houses in M.P. draws Shivraj’s anger; says ‘Mohan ji became CM with their votes’

The demolition of houses belonging to several tribal families in Madhya Pradesh's Budhni has drawn sharp criticism from Union Agriculture Minister and former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Chouhan lashed out against the State's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, alleging that the limits of oppression and injustice had been surpassed in his constituency. He contended that his successor, Mohan Yadav, had become the Chief Minister "with their very votes."

Addressing the issue on Sunday, October 11, 2026, Chouhan described the situation as "the height of oppression" and "the extreme limit of injustice." Homes that had previously thrived were now left in ruins, with families displaced and unable to recover their belongings. Chouhan, who visited the affected areas in Sehore district's Kosmi village, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the matter.

He expressed disappointment that no senior officials from the Forest Department or local administration were present during his visit.

Chouhan sought strict action against the officials responsible for the demolition and vowed to raise the issue with CM Yadav. He accused certain officials of attempting to tarnish the BJP's image by targeting these loyal voters, portraying the incident as a conspiracy. The former CM met with the affected families and requested that, as they had held possession of the land for years, they should not be harassed.

Yadav informed Chouhan that the matter had come to his attention and an inquiry would be conducted. However, Chouhan accused Yadav of not clarifying the orders behind the demolition when he raised concerns. The Opposition Congress has also joined the criticism, accusing the BJP of an internal power struggle.