Political clash in Jharkhand: BJP President accuses CM of lawlessness, JMM retaliates

Ranchi, Nov 13: Tensions escalate in Jharkhand as State BJP President, Babulal Marandi, launches a scathing attack on Chief Minister Hemant Soren just a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit. Marandi alleges a failure in maintaining law and order since the formation of the state, with a particular focus on the deteriorating situation in Dhanbad.

During a press conference at the state BJP office, Marandi accuses Chief Minister Soren of disregarding the law, emphasizing his failure to respond to five summonses from the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Marandi questions the Chief Minister’s commitment to the rule of law, asserting that compliance with the ED is crucial, whether innocence or guilt is at stake.

Highlighting the issue of illegal coal smuggling in Dhanbad, Marandi claims that it has reached unprecedented levels under the current regime. He points out the resulting extortion of levies and threats against businessmen, painting a grim picture of lawlessness in the region. Marandi criticizes the police administration for focusing on recovery rather than curbing smuggling and criminal activities.

In a swift counterattack, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) responds to Marandi’s allegations. JMM’s General Secretary and Central Spokesperson, Vinod Kumar Pandey, challenges Marandi’s interpretation of the law, suggesting that the BJP’s definition implies destabilizing a democratically elected government. Pandey dismisses Marandi’s claims as baseless and accuses him of venting frustration over being out of power.

Pandey underscores the historical struggle for the creation of Jharkhand, crediting Dishom Guru Shibu Soren for the state’s formation. He questions Marandi’s restlessness, implying it stems from a desire to return to power and asserts JMM’s unwavering faith in the Indian Constitution. Pandey accuses leaders like Marandi of pressuring central agencies for political gains, portraying it as a manifestation of their frustration.