SUMAN K SHRIVASTAVA &
SWAMI DIVYAGYAN
A key leader in Jharkhand’s political landscape, former Chief Minister, and current BJP State President, Babulal Marandi, taking time off during hectic campaigning, shares his perspectives on pressing issues, party strategies, and the overall development vision for Jharkhand. Marandi is fighting the assembly elections from the Dhanwar assembly constituency. His responses offer a deeper look into the challenges, priorities, and critical issues shaping his campaign in Dhanwar. His insightful honest viewpoints highlight his commitment to bring meaningful change to the state.
Excerpts:
Q: What are the main issues in your constituency right now?
Babulal Marandi: The usual challenges persist—roads, electricity, water, healthcare facilities. The state government has not adequately addressed these concerns.
Q: We noticed the main road was in good condition as we travelled here.
Babulal Marandi: While the main roads are reasonably maintained, the connecting roads that link villages to these main roads are in a terrible state. Under the current state government, their condition has only deteriorated.
Q: Who is your main competitor in the Dhanwar constituency?
Babulal Marandi: It’s not about any one individual. Ultimately, it’s the people who decide. If I can convey my dedication and suitability to them, they will support me.
Q: You have faced strong opponents before, like Shibu Soren. How does this election compare?
Babulal Marandi: Yes, I have contested against big leaders in the past, and this is my home constituency. I contested here in 2004, 2009, and won in 2019. The challenges this time may be different, but I am no stranger to difficult races.
Q: Is rebel candidate Niranjan Rai a challenge for you?
Babulal Marandi: Niranjan Rai is not exactly a rebel; he has been a supporter of the party in his own way. Every election has its challenges, but that doesn’t deter us.
Q: What about Nizamuddin Ansari from Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, who was once your party MLA (read JVM)?
Babulal Marandi: Politics is dynamic, people come and go. Whether it’s N
izamuddin Ansari or CPI(ML)’s Rajkumar Yadav, this is just the beginning. After Chhath Puja, we’ll know more about the main contest.
Q: How do you feel about the illegal infiltration issue in Jharkhand?
Babulal Marandi: Illegal infiltration is a serious concern. Jharkhand shares a border with Bengal, which connects to Bangladesh. This has led to continuous infiltration that’s severely impacting the demographic and economic stability of the state, especially for tribal communities. In 2023, even local officials submitted reports to the DC, highlighting the presence of infiltrators. But instead of addressing it, the state government ignored it, even issuing voter and Aadhar cards to these infiltrators. The High Court ordered verification, but the state government went to the Supreme Court to avoid action, clearly indicating they were sheltering these infiltrators.
Q: Isn’t border security a central government responsibility?
Babulal Marandi: Border security is indeed a central government duty, but the issue extends to state policies. The state government’s actions, like providing IDs to infiltrators, have worsened the situation and exposed their intent.
Q: How important is the issue of corruption in this election?
Babulal Marandi: Corruption is a major concern for common people. Bribes and systemic exploitation have become rampant. Without support from the state level, local officials wouldn’t be able to operate in this manner.
Q: What message do you have for Jharkhand’s people?
Babulal Marandi: My message is simple: Jharkhand deserves leaders who prioritise its development, cultural integrity, and the welfare of its people. I urge voters to choose leaders who truly stand for Jharkhand’s progress and future.
