Chamber’s election norms criticised for restricting participation of non-Raipur members
• Kamal Soni demands clarity on inconsistencies in chamber’s constitution
• Business community urges immediate corrective action for fair representation

By : Akshay Lahre
Raipur । In a strong objection against the restrictive election regulations of the Chhattisgarh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), the Chhattisgarh Sarafa Association (CSA) has condemned the provisions barring traders from outside Raipur from contesting key leadership positions. The association has termed these norms unjust and exclusionary, warning of strong opposition unless they are rectified.

The controversy revolves around the chamber’s upcoming elections for the positions of president, secretary, and co-treasurer, which are scheduled to take place at the state level. However, the election regulations restrict eligibility to only Raipur-based members, thereby preventing representatives from other districts from filing nominations for these pivotal roles.

Expressing severe dissatisfaction, CSA President Kamal Soni stated, “This regulation is discriminatory and contradicts the chamber’s role as a state-wide organisation. Every member, regardless of their district, should have the right to contest for leadership positions. By excluding members from other districts, the chamber is failing to represent the true interests of traders across Chhattisgarh.”

To address the issue, CSA President Kamal Soni has submitted a formal request to the election officer and assistant election officer of CCCI, seeking a written clarification regarding the basis of this provision. “We have sought a definitive response on whether this exclusionary clause is legally sound. If such a provision exists, we demand that it be immediately corrected to allow fair and transparent elections,” Soni asserted.

The association contends that the chamber’s regulatory framework contains serious inconsistencies, as different provisions appear to contradict each other. Upon reviewing the chamber’s constitution, CSA discovered that Section 9(1) explicitly states:

“Every member has the right to vote at the state level, propose or second a candidate, and contest elections for any post as per the prescribed regulations.”

However, Section 15 Clause (A) states that eligibility to contest elections for key leadership positions is limited solely to members residing in Raipur district. This contradiction, CSA argues, is unfair and legally questionable.

Kamal Soni criticised this inconsistency, stating, “A single regulatory framework cannot contain two conflicting provisions on the same subject. The chamber must either uphold democratic principles and allow participation from all districts or officially declare itself a Raipur-exclusive body. This ambiguity must be resolved immediately.”

According to Soni, CSA members have been raising concerns about this issue for a long time, but the chamber has failed to take corrective measures. “If traders from every district contribute to the chamber’s growth and participate in its activities, then why should they be deprived of contesting leadership roles? This goes against the fundamental principles of fairness,” he added.

Business associations from various districts across Chhattisgarh have expressed outrage after learning about these restrictive norms. Many were unaware of the rules until recently, and the revelation has fuelled significant resentment within the business community.

Soni remarked, “Several traders from outside Raipur were completely unaware that they were ineligible to contest elections. Now that this issue has come to light, business communities across the state are demanding urgent reforms.”

The CSA has urged CCCI’s leadership to review and amend these contentious regulations, allowing traders from all districts to have an equal opportunity to contest elections. The association has also called upon other business organisations across Chhattisgarh to unite in opposition to this discriminatory practice.

“If the chamber fails to take corrective action, we will escalate the matter to higher authorities. This is not just about an election but about ensuring equal representation for every businessperson in Chhattisgarh,” Soni warned.

Further strengthening its argument, CSA highlighted the contradiction between election rules and broader governance norms. As per the chamber’s statutory provisions, representatives for other positions—including vice president and ministers—are chosen from different districts, reinforcing the need for a uniform policy.

Soni pointed out, “The chamber allows traders from outside Raipur to participate in voting and decision-making, but when it comes to contesting elections, they are denied the right. This selective application of rules is neither fair nor legally justifiable.”

The association has vowed to challenge these inconsistencies in an appropriate forum if the chamber does not take corrective measures before the elections.

The CSA has called for an emergency discussion among business stakeholders and chamber officials to resolve this matter before the election process moves forward. It has also urged other district-based business associations to voice their opposition and demand changes in the chamber’s regulations.

“If the chamber truly represents the entire business fraternity of Chhattisgarh, then it must revise these election norms. Leadership should be decided based on merit and capability, not geographical limitations,” Soni emphasised.

As election day draws closer, pressure is mounting on CCCI’s leadership to address the grievances of the business community and take a firm stance on electoral fairness. The outcome of this dispute will determine whether the chamber upholds democratic values or persists with an exclusionary electoral framework that sidelines business leaders from other districts.

In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on CCCI’s response. If corrective action is not taken swiftly, traders across Chhattisgarh may take collective action to challenge the chamber’s governance policies and demand a more transparent and representative electoral process.