In a significant political development, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led government in Assam during his visit to the northeastern state on Sunday. The JMM leader accused the ruling dispensation of exploiting tribal communities through divisive policies and issued a strong caution to Adivasis, including tea-tribe populations, to remain vigilant and united as the Assam assembly elections draw nearer.
Political Significance of Soren's Assam Visit
Hemant Soren's journey to Assam, where he participated in a Tribal Mahasabha organized by the All Adivasi Students' Association of Assam (AASAA) in Tinsukia, carries substantial political weight. This visit follows a special invitation extended to the Jharkhand CM and comes after his party's resounding victory in the 2024 Jharkhand assembly polls. The timing is particularly noteworthy as the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha is reportedly considering expanding its electoral footprint into Northeast India.
Direct Challenge to Assam Counterpart
The Jharkhand chief minister is spearheading a direct confrontation against his Assam counterpart, Himanta Biswa Sarma, through a pre-election rally held in the latter's political stronghold. This move signals Soren's determination to make the electoral battle challenging for the National Democratic Alliance in Assam. The political rivalry between the two leaders has historical context, as Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma served as one of the BJP's key strategists during the 2024 Jharkhand assembly elections, where he virtually camped in the state for months to counter the JMM-led coalition.
Addressing Tribal Concerns in Assam
Speaking to a large gathering of tribal communities on Sunday, Hemant Soren delivered a powerful message about unity and resistance. "Those people currently in power in Assam have divided the people through their nefarious policies," he asserted. "Now that the elections are coming up, you all must stay united."
The Jharkhand CM invoked his family's historical connection with Assam's tribal communities, recalling how his father, Shibu Soren, frequently visited the state to work for tribal welfare. Many of these communities migrated from Jharkhand decades ago and settled in Assam's tea estates. "Now, I too will stay in touch with all of you, to work for you for your welfare," Soren promised the assembled crowd.
Sharp Criticism of Assam's Ruling Establishment
In his harshest remarks, Hemant Soren characterized the incumbent Assam regime as "businessmen" rather than genuine politicians. "They are not politicians but businessmen. They only know how to take, but not to give anything to you," he declared.
Soren emphasized the dignity and self-respect of tribal communities, warning that "if the time comes, we can also take on anyone." He highlighted historical resistance, noting that "it was the tribals who first rose against the British," underscoring the community's legacy of political assertion.
Personal Resilience and Governance Achievements
The Jharkhand chief minister also referenced his personal political struggles, including his imprisonment two years ago. "I didn't fear when these people put me in jail, but we fought back even harder," he stated, demonstrating his resolve against political adversaries.
Soren showcased his government's welfare initiatives in Jharkhand as evidence of his commitment to tribal empowerment. He highlighted the provision of Rs 2,500 monthly financial assistance to numerous women, including those from tribal backgrounds, as a concrete example of his administration's pro-people policies.
This political confrontation between two prominent regional leaders sets the stage for an intense electoral battle in Assam, with tribal votes emerging as a crucial factor. Hemant Soren's direct intervention in Assam's political landscape indicates growing inter-state political dynamics in India's northeastern region, where tribal identity and welfare have become central electoral issues.
