In his first Jharkhand rally, ‘stability’ joins PM Modi ‘guarantees’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized during his inaugural campaign rally in Jharkhand following the declaration of the state’s Assembly elections that a BJP administration alone could deliver “convenience”, “security”, “stability”, and “prosperity”. These four elements were subsequently included as part of the self-proclaimed “Modi’s assurances”.

The Prime Minister and his ministers have previously emphasized the BJP government’s commitment to offering “comforts”, “security”, and “prosperity” to the voters. Now, the aspect of “stability” has been included in their narrative. BJP leaders indicated that this theme will be further highlighted in the upcoming days in Jharkhand as the party tailors its campaign to suit the state’s demographics.

Integral to the success of the aforementioned campaign and the BJP’s endeavor to regain control in the state is the pivotal tribal vote. The tribal community accounts for a significant portion of Jharkhand’s populace, constituting a quarter of the population according to the 2011 Census. In 21 out of the state’s 24 districts, the tribal population is no less than a hundred thousand. Out of the total 81 Assembly seats in the state (along with 1 nominated seat), 28 are specifically reserved for Scheduled Tribes.

During its previous tenure in power in Jharkhand, the BJP caused displeasure among the tribal community by appointing a non-tribal, Raghubar Das, as the Chief Minister. The recent arrest of the incumbent CM, Hemant Soren, on charges of money laundering has been framed by his party JMM as a move orchestrated by the BJP-led Central government against the tribals. In the latest Lok Sabha elections, the BJP was unable to secure victory in any of the ST-reserved seats in Jharkhand.

The BJP is pitching for the tribal vote in Jharkhand claiming that increasing infiltration by “Bangladeshis” is leading to diminishing of the tribal influence in the state. It has also alleged that infiltrators are marrying tribal women to take over their land, and usurping jobs meant for locals in the state.

Modi criticized the JMM-led ruling coalition during his Monday speech, labeling it as an “infiltrators’ alliance” and “mafia’s puppet” for its purported backing of Bangladeshi infiltrators. He emphasized that the welfare and security of tribal communities in the state were threatened, urging them to opt for a path of progress by electing the BJP for a more robust governance.

Nishikant Dubey, a senior BJP figure and Member of Parliament representing Jharkhand, stated that Prime Minister Modi would further elucidate on these commitments during a rally in mid-November. He emphasized that the Prime Minister’s assurances for both tribal and non-tribal communities revolve around the BJP government’s efforts to enhance livelihoods within their home state, minimizing the need for migration. Dubey highlighted the positive impact of Central government schemes on the people of Jharkhand and reiterated the party’s dedication to constructing 21 lakh residences through the PM Awas Yojana.

The Union Home Ministry expressed worry about “illegal migration in areas of Jharkhand” in a sworn statement submitted to the Jharkhand High Court in September. However, it mentioned that there were no established “connections to Bangladeshi immigrants” in any land-related incidents “up to now”.

Dubey, on the other hand, contended that the shifting demographics within the state served as evidence supporting the presence of a problem.

Modi, during his rally on Monday, alleged that the JMM, Congress, and RJD were exploiting Bangladeshi infiltrators for the sake of “vote bank politics”. He claimed that these ruling parties were facilitating the settlement of infiltrators in the state, thereby endangering its social fabric.

As per the commitment under the “samriddhi” initiative, the BJP has outlined plans to enhance employment opportunities, offer LPG cylinders at a price of Rs 500 each, with two complimentary cylinders annually, and provide a monthly stipend of Rs 2,000 for two years to recent graduates facing challenges in kickstarting their professional journeys.

The BJP views Jharkhand through the lens of a “border state,” taking into account all the related implications. Currently, Opposition parties govern multiple border states like Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and West Bengal. Emphasizing stability, advancements in living conditions, security, and economic growth, the BJP pledges these commitments to border states, with Jharkhand being no different, as stated by a party official.