THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, April 14: In a powerful show of strength and political resolve, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) launched its much-anticipated party convention on Monday at the Tana Bhagat Indoor Stadium, Khelgaon, Ranchi. The event, dedicated to the legacy of social justice icon Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, marks a critical moment for the party as it outlines its future trajectory—both within Jharkhand and beyond.
The convention, chaired by party patriarch Shibu Soren, featured a fiery address by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who credited the ousting of the previous BJP-led ‘double engine’ government in 2019 to the will of the state’s tribals, Dalits, and other marginalised communities.
“A Government of the People”
Addressing a packed audience, Hemant Soren declared, “The tribals, indigenous people, poor, Dalits, oppressed and exploited of Jharkhand united to remove a government that ignored their rights. Our government belongs to them—it works for their welfare and safeguards their future.”
Soren added that the JMM-led state government, which he referred to as the “Abua Sarkar” (our government), has stood firm in the face of political pressure. “Despite every effort from opposition parties, we have not bowed down. We are here to protect the interests of Jharkhand’s people,” he said.
Legacy of Struggle and Resistance
Reflecting on the state’s tumultuous history, Soren noted that since its formation in 2000, Jharkhand’s tribals and Dalits have continued to face exploitation and neglect. He accused successive governments of adopting anti-people policies, which have driven many farmers and labourers to despair.
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He also acknowledged his political mentor and father, Shibu Soren—revered as ‘Guruji’—crediting him for teaching him the intricacies of grassroots politics. Hemant Soren is currently serving his third term as Jharkhand’s Chief Minister and is the working president of JMM.
The convention is expected to set the roadmap for JMM’s political and organisational strategy.
Political Resolution: Reservation, Caste Census, and Sarna Code
Senior MLA Stephen Marandi read out the party’s political resolution, demanding:
- 27% reservation for OBCs
- Implementation of a 1932-based domicile policy
- Recognition of the Sarna Dharma Code
- Nationwide caste census
- 75% job reservation for locals in the private sector
The party reaffirmed its opposition to the Waqf Act amendments and the proposed delimitation process.
JMM’s Evolution: From Regional Voice to National Aspiration
Formed in 1972, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha began as a tribal rights movement under the leadership of Shibu Soren. Originally a grassroots platform advocating for the creation of a separate tribal state, the party played a central role in the formation of Jharkhand in 2000 after decades of struggle and sacrifice.
Now, with the 2024 general elections behind and assembly elections in neighbouring states approaching, the JMM appears ready to broaden its reach and redefine its identity on the national stage.
