SWAMI DIVYAGYAN
Ranchi, Nov 26: The recent Jharkhand Assembly elections have highlighted the deep-rooted caste-based divisions within the Kurmi community, significantly altering the political landscape. These elections brought challenges for the All-Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) party while providing an unexpected boost to the Jharkhand Loktantrik Kranti Morcha (JLKM). The fragmented support from the Kurmi community has raised questions about unity within caste-based politics and its broader implications for the political narrative in Jharkhand.
Kurmi Community’s Political Influence
The Kurmi community, with a substantial population of over 35 lakhs in Jharkhand, has historically held significant political sway in regions such as Dhanbad, Ranchi, Ramgarh, Bokaro, and Giridih. For years, the AJSU party benefited from the community’s consolidated support, leveraging it to strengthen its political base. However, the recent elections revealed a fractured vote bank, challenging the long-standing equation between AJSU and the Kurmi community.
Viral Letter and Rising Discontent
A viral letter from within the Kurmi community has become a focal point of discontent, accusing the AJSU of exploiting the community’s support without fostering its leadership. The letter alleges that AJSU leaders have systematically suppressed emerging leaders from the Kurmi community, committing what it described as “leadership infanticide.” This has deepened the sense of betrayal within the community, triggering a shift in its political allegiance.
Hindu Unity and Caste Fragmentation
The election results also debunk the often-repeated claim of unwavering Hindu unity, exposing the fractures caused by caste-based politics. While many argue that there is solidarity within Hindu castes, the division between the AJSU and the JLKM over Kurmi votes demonstrates otherwise. The Kurmi community’s votes were split between the two parties, undermining both their political objectives. This fragmentation has weakened the Kurmi community’s collective political impact, leading to an outcome where neither the AJSU nor the JLKM fully capitalised on the community’s potential support.
Election Outcomes and Political Implications
The JLKM managed to secure over 1 million votes, predominantly from the Kurmi community, yet it could win only one seat. Its leader, Jairam Mahto, claimed victory in the Dumri constituency, marking a significant milestone for the party. Meanwhile, the AJSU’s long-standing hold over the Kurmi vote eroded, with its leader Sudesh Mahto losing his seat. This division of votes diluted the Kurmi community’s influence, benefiting rival parties like the JMM and leaving both the JLKM and the AJSU grappling with the consequences of fragmented support.
Criticism of AJSU and BJP
A significant section of the Kurmi community has criticised both the AJSU and the BJP for failing to honour the community’s intellectual and historical contributions. The sidelining of iconic Kurmi leaders like Binod Bihari Mahto has fuelled resentment, with some within the community labelling such actions as political betrayal. This resentment is so pronounced that future generations may view these actions as comparable to the betrayal associated with historical figures like “Jaichand.”
Challenges Ahead for AJSU
The AJSU now faces an uphill task of rebuilding trust with the Kurmi community. Sudesh Mahto’s defeat is a testament to the deep-seated discontent within the community. For the AJSU, addressing the grievances of the Kurmi community and realigning its strategy will be crucial to its political survival.
Conclusion
The elections in Jharkhand underscore the complexities of caste-based politics and its far-reaching implications. The division within the Kurmi community has not only reshaped the state’s political dynamics but also emphasized the need for parties like AJSU and BJP to adopt a more inclusive and responsive approach. The emergence of JLKM, fuelled by the discontent within the Kurmi community, signals a shift in Jharkhand’s political narrative. Moving forward, political parties must navigate these divisions carefully, recognising that fractured support from key communities can disrupt even the most well-established political equations.
