A life-size statue of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Ajit Jogi vanished from its place in Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi district on Monday, May 26, 2025, triggering an uproar and sparking protests led by his son, Amit Jogi. The statue, which was slated for unveiling on May 29, the anniversary of Jogi's death, was later discovered within the Gaurela municipality office premises, according to officials.
The incident has ignited tensions between local administration and Jogi's supporters, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding the statue's disappearance and subsequent relocation. Local police have registered a theft case against unknown individuals and have identified an earthmover allegedly used in the removal of the statue, further intensifying the controversy.
According to authorities, CCTV footage captured the statue's removal around 2:30 am with the use of an earthmover. The statue had been erected on a platform at Jyotipur square in Gaurela a few days prior to the incident and was fully decorated with invitation cards distributed in anticipation of the unveiling ceremony.
Upon learning of the statue's disappearance, Jogi's supporters and Congress workers staged protests at the site, demanding its immediate reinstatement. Amit Jogi, Ajit Jogi's son, has launched an indefinite hunger strike, vowing to continue until the statue is returned to its original location. Jogi Congress leaders have decried the incident as a "political conspiracy," accusing rivals of attempting to erase Ajit Jogi's legacy. They emphasized Jogi's significant role as not just a political leader but as the "soul of Chhattisgarh," viewing the statue's removal as a mockery of public sentiment.
Adding another layer to the controversy, Gaurela Municipal Chief Officer Narayan Sahu had previously objected to the statue's unauthorized installation, instructing the construction company to remove it within 24 hours. This objection reportedly stemmed from a prior proposal to install a statue of Pandit Shyama Prasad Mukherjee at the same location.
In response to the escalating situation, the district administration and police have taken action, deploying a heavy police presence in the area and initiating investigations. Naveen Bodkar, the in-charge of Gaurela police station, confirmed the registration of a case and stated that investigations are underway to determine who hired the crane and under whose instructions the statue was moved. Tehsildar Shesh Narayan Jaiswal echoed these sentiments, stating that the statue was removed by anti-social elements, and appropriate action will be taken following the investigation.
The incident has drawn sharp reactions from various quarters. Supporters have described the incident as sad and shameful, stressing that there should be no controversy over unveiling the statue of Chhattisgarh's first Chief Minister. Amit Jogi has questioned the state of law and order in Chhattisgarh, criticizing the government's handling of the situation.
As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on identifying those responsible for the statue's removal and resolving the tensions between Jogi's supporters and the local administration. The incident highlights the deep political undercurrents in Chhattisgarh and the significance of Ajit Jogi's legacy in the region.
