In Madhya Pradesh, Congress factionalism resurfaces over Mandsaur, sapling drive

Till that point, the controversy was limited to Mandsaur and sapling plantation, but by mentioning Simhastha, Nath also got back at Singh.

Forest Minister Singhar told The Indian Express that he did not give a clean chit to the previous government in the alleged fraud in plantation of six crore saplings on July 2, 2017. He claimed that his reply was misinterpreted by some by focusing on one line while ignoring details in accompanying documents.

Singhar also wrote to Singh, “Had you discussed the issue with me before approaching the media, things would not have come to such a pass.” He added, “Your son and Urban Development Minister Jaivardhan Singh gave a clean chit in Simhastha scam. You should do justice to all and think about strengthening the party.”

Singh claimed that he had pulled up his son, but insisted that he did nothing wrong in rebuking the two ministers.

“The government should make it clear if it is running on the agenda of the Congress, Kamal Nath or Digvijaya Singh,” said BJP chief Rakesh Singh.

Jaivardhan had later claimed that no clean chit was given on the Simhastha issue and that he had asked the principal secretary to call for files.