Ranchi, April 28: During a press conference held at the party office, JMM’s General Secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Jharkhand but raised four significant questions pertinent to the state. Bhattacharya emphasized that while issues like Hindu-Muslim dynamics and Mangalsutra might be relevant elsewhere, Jharkhand demands answers to its own pressing concerns.
Bhattacharya underscored the need for Prime Minister Modi to clarify his stance on tribal identity matters, particularly the Sarna Dharma code. He called for clarity on whether the Prime Minister supports this demand and what his personal views are on the subject.
Furthermore, Bhattacharya queried about the amendments to the Forest Rights Act, specifically in relation to Adani’s involvement in Chhattisgarh’s Hasdeva forest and potential ramifications for areas like Paundahat, Sarda, and Kolhan. He raised concerns about the potential impact on tribal communities and the dilution of Gram Sabha powers.
Another point of contention was the amendments to the Coal Warehousing Act, with Bhattacharya questioning the removal of social and environmental impact assessments. He suggested that these changes could be part of a larger scheme to alter the demographic and environmental landscape of Jharkhand’s mining areas, potentially enabling outside populations and capitalists to exploit these regions.
Lastly, Bhattacharya highlighted the decline of Heavy Engineering Corporation (HEC) over the past decade, once a prominent industrial entity in Asia. He urged the Prime Minister to elucidate any overarching plans regarding HEC’s future and the government’s role in its decline.
Modi’s tactics won’t intimidate Jharkhandis: Bhattacharya
Ranchi, April 28: In a spirited address, Bhattacharya asserted that the people of Jharkhand are descendants of brave warriors and freedom fighters who have faced oppression with unwavering resolve. He emphasized that attempts to instill fear, such as the incarceration of Hemant Soren, a champion of tribal rights, will not deter the resilient spirit of Jharkhandis. Bhattacharya reaffirmed the commitment of Jharkhandis to continue their struggle for justice and equality, resolute in their refusal to bow down to tyranny.
In a scathing critique of the BJP, Bhattacharya accused them of ignorance and negligence, asserting that pertinent questions should be directed to the Election Commission and Airport Authority regarding logistical arrangements for political events. He revealed that despite efforts to secure space for a campaign event, the Airport Authority cited prior bookings, leaving no room for the campaign convoy. Bhattacharya clarified that Hemant Soren’s inclusion in the list of star campaigners was based on procedural grounds, pending legal proceedings related to his bail. He highlighted the electoral process’s rigidity, which prohibits the designation of star campaigners until all legal matters are resolved. Regarding Chamra Linda’s potential candidacy, Bhattacharya explained that her status was contingent upon developments preceding the nomination withdrawal deadline on April 29.