Congress Walks Out of Chhattisgarh Assembly Over Alleged Illegal Fly Ash Dumping in Raigarh

Raipur: The opposition Indian National Congress staged a walkout from the Chhattisgarh Assembly on Monday, alleging large-scale illegal dumping of fly ash in Raigarh district and accusing the government of failing to prevent environmental damage.

Raising the issue during Question Hour, Congress MLAs claimed that fly ash generated by thermal power plants in Raigarh was being dumped in violation of environmental norms, leading to pollution of agricultural land and water bodies. The party demanded a detailed probe and strict action against power plant operators found flouting regulations.

Government’s Response in the House

Responding to the allegations, State Finance Minister O.P. Choudhary told the Assembly that from 2023 till February 4, 2026, fly ash generated by 24 thermal power plants in Raigarh district had been utilised for land filling and mine filling purposes.

He stated that the utilisation was carried out in accordance with guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Central Pollution Control Board. The minister emphasised that fly ash reuse in land reclamation and mine filling is a recognised method under regulatory frameworks aimed at reducing environmental hazards.

Choudhary further informed the House that district-level monitoring committees regularly inspect sites to ensure compliance and that action would be taken if any violations were found.

Opposition’s Allegations

Congress members, however, alleged that despite official claims of “utilisation,” illegal dumping was taking place in open areas without proper safeguards. They argued that improper handling of fly ash — a byproduct of coal-based thermal power generation — can contaminate soil, groundwater and air, posing serious health risks to nearby residents.

The opposition demanded an independent investigation by a high-level committee and compensation for farmers whose lands were allegedly affected.

Unsatisfied with the government’s reply, Congress legislators trooped into the Well of the House, raised slogans against the ruling dispensation, and later staged a walkout in protest.

Environmental and Political Significance

Raigarh district, known for its concentration of thermal power plants and industrial units, has frequently been at the centre of debates over environmental compliance and industrial regulation.

The ruling party maintained that fly ash management is being conducted within legal parameters and accused the opposition of politicising the issue. Meanwhile, Congress leaders said they would continue to raise the matter both inside and outside the Assembly until a comprehensive inquiry is conducted.

The issue is expected to remain a flashpoint in the ongoing session as both sides prepare to escalate the debate over industrial regulation and environmental safeguards in the state.