Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, Nov 22: Jharkhand Mukti Morcha’s (JMM) central spokesperson Kunal Sarangi delivered a special lecture at the University of Sussex, invited by the Centre for World Environmental History, showcasing Jharkhand’s historic struggle for Jal, Jungle, Zameen (water, forest, land) and the inspirational life of tribal icon Shibu Soren.
Kunal commenced his address with a warm ‘Johar’, and traced the 150-year-long history of tribal resistance in Jharkhand — from the Santhal heroes Sidho-Kanhu to the revolutionary Birsa Munda.
He emphasized that the first call for freedom against British rule was ignited in 1757 from Bhognadih, yet the global discourse seldom recognises the contributions of Jharkhand’s Indigenous movements — a neglect he termed “unfortunate”.
Highlighting towering post-independence tribal leaders, he said Jaipal Singh Munda and Shibu Soren emerged as the strongest voices for Adivasi rights.
Guruji (Shibu Soren), he noted, led decisive fights against exploitative moneylenders and championed land rights, agricultural upliftment, education, and self-reliance for tribal communities.
Despite being legally absolved of corruption charges, Kunal said, national and international platforms still do not give Guruji the recognition his contributions deserve.
He also elaborated on the founding vision behind JMM by Shibu Soren, Vinod Bihari Mahato, and A.K. Roy — empowering local voices through political representation — and how this mission continues under Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
Kunal praised the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Scholarship, which has enabled meritorious Jharkhand students to study at leading UK universities.
He met Trinisha from Ranchi and Usha from Khunti — beneficiaries currently studying at the University of Sussex — who expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
He extended heartfelt thanks to International Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor Simon Thompson, Centre Director Vinita Damodaran, and lecture coordinator Professor Soumya Nath for hosting this discussion on JMM’s struggle and Shibu Soren’s remarkable journey.
Kunal further revealed that academic exchange programmes and institutional partnerships between Sussex University and Jharkhand will be strengthened soon.
A delegation from the university is scheduled to visit Ranchi in January to meet Chief Minister Hemant Soren and expand collaborative initiatives.
