Hemant Soren’s Battle Cry: ‘Fight for ₹1.36 Lakh Crore—Jharkhand’s Rights Are Non-Negotiable!’

Giridih: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren called upon the people to be ready to fight against the Centre’s stepmotherly treatment to claim their rights.

Addressing a large crowd during the 52nd Foundation Day of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha’s Giridih chapter, the Chief Minister said, “The Central government always treats us with stepmotherly care. It is ironic that everything—from fields, rivers, to mines—is ours, yet we don’t get our due share. How is that possible? First, we must receive our rightful dues of Rs 1,36,000 crore.”

CM Soren, now sporting a rugged look inspired by his father, Shibu Soren, repeated his statement in Santhali. In his 33-minute long speech, he made several references in the language of the indigenous people.

“Crony capitalists are looting the country. Here, they are trying everything they can. But we are sitting here, and until the Adivasis, Dalits, and minorities receive their due, they will not succeed here,” he said, urging the crowd to stay united.

Expansion on the Jharkhand Government vs. Centre’s Dues Standoff

The stand-off regarding Jharkhand’s dues from the Centre is a critical and ongoing issue. Hemant Soren’s government has been vocal about the Rs 1,36,000 crore that the state believes is owed by the Centre. This amount represents funds that Jharkhand claims are due for its rightful share from natural resources like mines, rivers, and forests, which the state has long struggled to control effectively. Despite the state’s substantial natural wealth, the Centre’s delay in releasing these funds has sparked frustration, particularly as the state continues to face infrastructural deficits and rising poverty rates.

Soren’s comments during the Giridih address are part of a larger political narrative in Jharkhand that underscores the regional government’s struggle for financial autonomy and justice. He has made it clear that the state will not back down in its demand for these funds, which he sees as crucial for the development of Jharkhand and the welfare of its marginalized communities. The standoff with the Centre is also seen as emblematic of the growing tensions between regional governments and the Union Government over fiscal federalism, resource sharing, and the management of state economies.

Maiyya Samman Yojna to Combat Inflation

Soren went on to address the nation’s worsening economic situation, highlighting the rising taxes on essential items like salt, flour, milk, and even school supplies—things that had never been taxed before. He criticized the government’s handling of inflation and emphasized how the Jharkhand government is actively fighting against these burdens. “To ease your difficulties, we are supporting families through the Maiyya Samman Yojna. This program provides direct financial support to lessen the impact of inflation,” he explained.

Soren also cited a recent report from the NITI Aayog, which acknowledged Jharkhand as one of the four Indian states strengthening its economic position. “We affirm that our government is working towards lifting people out of poverty and improving the living standards of those Below the Poverty Line,” he added.

Giridih: From Shibu Soren’s Work Field to Kalpana Soren’s Political Journey

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has a long-standing relationship with Giridih, a bond stretching over half a century. On March 4, the ruling party celebrated its 52nd foundation day in the district. The significance of this day goes beyond just being the birthplace of one of the party’s oldest chapters—it was also the work field of JMM’s founder, Shibu Soren. A new chapter was added this year, as Kalpana Murmu Soren, the wife of Hemant Soren and a legislator from Gandey, made her first public appearance as a politician. She marked her one-year milestone in politics with a heartfelt speech.

Kalpana, who had captured national attention with her impressive oratory skills, reflected on her journey. “This is the same platform where you saw me crying. Everyone was there, except Hemant Soren. You were my strength, and I am thankful for it,” she said.

The day before, on March 3, she had celebrated her birthday. On March 4, 2024, she again became emotional, recalling the significance of the moment: “To remember this situation, you all affirmed that if there is a government in Jharkhand, it will be the same government, and we have the Abua government.”

Kalpana Soren also highlighted the significance of the Jharkhand government’s budget, emphasizing that it reflects the promises made by Hemant Soren. “The budget is a reflection of Hemant’s promises,” she stated.

She also requested Minister Sudivya Sonu to work on developing the tourism sector in the region to generate employment opportunities for the people of Giridih.

“It was the dream and vision of Shibu Soren and his colleagues—who left their homes and families to create a separate state – Jharkhand. I salute them. This party is born out of struggle, and I, too, have come from struggles, but you, the people, have always been my strength,” she said.