Ranchi, Oct 24: Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) general secretary Vinod Pandey on Saturday launched a sharp attack on BJP national president Nitin Naveen over his remarks describing Jharkhand as a BJP stronghold, asserting that the state belongs to its people and its political future will be determined by their mandate.
Reacting to Naveen’s visit to the state and his statements, Pandey said the BJP was insulting the people of Jharkhand by claiming the state as its stronghold. Jharkhand is a land of aspirations, struggles and rights, he said, adding that no political party could claim ownership over it.
He pointed out that voters had given Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s leadership the opportunity to serve the state for two consecutive terms, asserting that political speeches and empty slogans could not mislead the electorate.
Questioning the BJP’s record since the formation of Jharkhand, Pandey asked what the party had done for tribal communities, indigenous people, youth and farmers during its extended periods in power. Despite the state’s mineral wealth contributing significantly to the national economy, he said, its people were yet to receive opportunities and benefits commensurate with their resources.
Pandey said the BJP should substantiate its claims on development by accounting for its performance during its tenure in government.
Accusing the BJP of exploiting issues concerning students and young people for political gains, Pandey said employment and youth welfare should not be reduced to election rhetoric. He maintained that the state government was committed to addressing employment-related concerns and challenged the BJP to explain the Centre’s record on jobs, inflation and the future of young people.
On tribal rights, Pandey said Jharkhand’s identity was rooted in its tribal culture, social justice and struggles for jal, jangal aur zameen (water, forests and land). He asserted that the BJP’s claims of protecting the Constitution and democracy must be accompanied by a firm commitment to safeguarding tribal rights and dignity.
Pandey also criticised the BJP’s approach to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, urging its leaders to respect democratic procedures and citizens’ rights. He alleged that accusations against the opposition of protecting infiltrators were intended to divert public attention from pressing issues. Matters concerning citizenship and voting rights, he said, should be addressed in accordance with the law rather than through political rhetoric that could create fear and confusion.
Reiterating the JMM’s commitment to the rights, dignity and development of Jharkhand’s people, Pandey said the BJP should answer for its promises, governance record and the Centre’s performance instead of delivering political sermons to the people of the state.
He added that the people of Jharkhand would judge political parties on the basis of their experience and wisdom, asserting that the state’s political future would be decided by its electorate and not by any national BJP leader.
