THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, June 7: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has strongly condemned recent remarks by former Chief Minister Raghubar Das, accusing him of spreading communal hatred and attempting to disrupt the state’s longstanding social harmony. The reaction follows Das’s controversial statement in Dumka, where he claimed that “one group wants to turn Jharkhand into a Christian state, and another into an Islamic state.”
JMM spokesperson and central committee member Dr. Tanuj Khatri described the comment as a “direct attack” on Jharkhand’s secular fabric and an attempt to gain “cheap political attention through fear and polarization.”
JMM Calls Out “Double Standards” of Former CM
Dr. Khatri reminded the public of Das’s tenure as Chief Minister, criticising what he called “double standards” and a “history of betrayal” toward tribal communities. He pointed to the attempted amendments to the CNT and SPT Acts — protective laws for tribal land — and alleged efforts to transfer tribal land to corporate interests.
“The people have not forgotten the police firing on innocent tribals, sedition charges against activists, and the criminalisation of traditional tribal practices like Pathalgadi,” Khatri said. “Now, the same leader wants to act as a guardian of tribal rights. It’s nothing but crocodile tears,” he added.
“Jharkhand Needs Unity, Not Fear”: JMM Reaffirms Commitment
Reaffirming the JMM government’s stance, Dr. Khatri said that Chief Minister Hemant Soren is committed to upholding constitutional values such as democracy, social justice, and the preservation of indigenous identity.
He highlighted key government initiatives like the push for a separate Sarna Code for tribal religion, the new local domicile policy, expanded student scholarship schemes, and targeted employment programs for tribal youth.
“These are not just policies — they are proof of our government’s dedication to tribal rights and welfare,” Khatri stated.
Public Will Reject Divisive Politics, Says JMM
Concluding his statement, Dr. Khatri asserted that Jharkhand has consistently rejected communal and divisive politics, and will continue to do so in the future.
“Raghubar Das and others who attempt to polarise communities through religion have already been shown the door by the people of Jharkhand — and they will continue to be rejected,” he said.
