BHOPAL: Fervent supporters gathered outside the swearing-in ceremony of the new Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, Mohan Yadav, as they bid farewell to the outgoing CM, Shivraj Singh Chouhan. As Chouhan departed the ceremony, chants of ‘Mama ji hum tumhare saath nahi chhorenge (Mamaji we won’t leave your side)’ echoed through the crowd, expressing deep sorrow at the end of his 18-year tenure.
Chouhan, affectionately known as Mamaji, had endeared himself to the people of Madhya Pradesh through his welfare schemes, notably the ‘Ladli Behna Yojna,’ which provided a financial aid of Rs 1,250 to women in the state. His significant influence was reflected in his recent victory, securing the seat with the second-highest vote margin of nearly 1.04 lakh votes.
FLASH: Outside the swearing-in venue, BJP supporters bring #ShivrajSinghChouhan‘s convoy to a halt.
A sizable crowd assembled to meet the leader. Echoes of “Mama Mama” filled the air as women and youth gather to greet Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Reports: @rohanduaT02
Visuals:… pic.twitter.com/rb0Rc7HAxe— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) December 13, 2023
The scene outside the venue was poignant, with supporters blocking Chouhan’s convoy, showering him with hugs and holding onto his hands as he tried to enter his car. The chants of ‘Mama-Mama,’ are a testament to the profound impact he had on the lives of the people, especially women.
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A viral video from his residence, on Tuesday, as he resigned from his post depicted distraught women imploring him not to leave. In response, Chouhan assured them, “Main bhi kahan jaa raha hoon, main bhi nahi chhodunga (I am not going either, I will also not leave),” signifying the strong bond he shares with the people.
Chouhan’s departure marks the end of an era, not just as a leader from the Atal-Advani era but as a significant figure who once rivalled Narendra Modi for the party’s prime ministerial face. Despite the changing political landscape, Chouhan’s achievements and popularity have left an indelible mark on Madhya Pradesh.
In a transition, Mohan Yadav took the oath as the new Chief Minister in the presence of dignitaries, including PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Maharashtra CM Ekhnath Shinde, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, BJP Chief J P Nadda, and other prominent BJP and NDA officials.