Raipur, Oct. 23 -- Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday welcomed President Droupadi Murmu's participation in the Muria Darbar during Bastar Dussehra, describing it as a historic occasion, while accusing the Congress of using the tribal community as a "vote bank" and asserting that Naxalism had been eradicated from the Bastar region.

Sai said the President's participation in the traditional gathering was a significant moment for the state, as Bastar celebrates the world's longest Dussehra festival, spanning 75 days.

"Today is a historic day for Chhattisgarh. In Bastar, the world's longest Dussehra festival-spanning 75 days-is celebrated, which includes the 'Muria Darbar.' It is perhaps the first time that the President of...