The Jharkhand branch of the Communist Party of India (CPI) marked a significant milestone on Friday, celebrating the party's 100th foundation day with fervor and a renewed pledge to champion the rights of the marginalized. The event, held in Ranchi, saw leaders and workers commit to a vigorous fight for the protection of the state's vital natural resources—forests, water, and land—and to continue being the voice of the poor, deprived, and laboring classes.
A Centenary of Struggle and Resolve
The centenary celebrations were organized at the CPI state office in Ranchi, where a large gathering of dedicated party workers assembled. The ceremony was led by CPI state secretary Mahendra Pathak, who hoisted the distinctive party flag to commemorate the occasion. The event included the traditional cutting of a cake and distribution of sweets, symbolizing both reflection on the past and hope for the future.
Addressing the attendees, Pathak delved into the party's rich and tumultuous history. He reminded everyone that the CPI was founded on December 26, 1925, in Kanpur. "Our predecessors waged relentless battles against exploitation, oppression, and injustice," Pathak stated. "Many made the ultimate sacrifice during the British era. That legacy continues as our party remains the steadfast voice for farmers, laborers, students, and the youth."
Contemporary Challenges and a Firm Pledge
Pathak's speech swiftly moved from historical tribute to contemporary critique. He leveled a serious allegation that the nation's wealth and precious resources are being systematically handed over to capitalist interests. Furthermore, he asserted that the genuine voices of the common people are being suppressed in the current climate.
In response to these perceived threats, the Jharkhand unit passed a decisive resolution. "We have resolved to protect the country's mines, minerals, water, forests, and land from predatory exploitation," Pathak declared emphatically. He reinforced the party's core mission, stating their unwavering commitment to become the amplified voice of the deprived sections of society. This pledge forms the cornerstone of their agenda as they step into the party's second century.
The Road Ahead for CPI in Jharkhand
The 100th foundation day event was not merely a ceremonial look back but a strategic launchpad for future action. By centering its resolution on the protection of natural resources—a critical issue in resource-rich Jharkhand—the CPI is positioning itself as a primary defender of tribal and local community rights. The focus on laborers and the poor aligns with its traditional ideological base, aiming to consolidate support in a state marked by economic disparities.
The celebration in Ranchi signals the CPI's intent to remain a relevant political force in Jharkhand's landscape. By connecting its historic legacy of anti-colonial and class struggle to modern-day issues of environmental justice and equitable resource distribution, the party seeks to carve out a distinct and urgent space for itself in contemporary Indian politics.
