Jharkhand Activists Announce Indefinite Dharna for Demands
Ranchi: The Jharkhand Andolankari Sangharsh Morcha (JASM), a group formed by individuals who fought for the creation of a separate state, has declared an indefinite dharna near the state assembly starting Monday. The protest aims to pressure the government into meeting several key demands, including an increase in honorarium, job provisions for dependants, and other related issues.
Key Demands of the Protest
In a formal statement, JASM outlined its primary demands. The organization is calling for the state government to withdraw provisions that include jail terms for certain activists and to provide a pension of Rs 50,000 each to its members. Additionally, JASM is pushing for direct appointments for the dependants of activists and the issuance of a gazette notification to confer the highest honor upon Shibu Soren, a prominent figure in the statehood movement.
Leadership and Protest Details
Pushkar Mahto, the founder of JASM, emphasized the scale and determination of the protest. He stated, "Thousands of participants will carry traditional weapons, flags, badges, and banners to fight for their pride. There is deep resentment among revolutionaries due to the non-fulfilment of their long-standing demands." The protest will commence at Birsa Chowk, where activists plan to garland the statue of Birsa Munda before marching towards the state assembly to begin the dharna.
Support from Other Groups
JASM has announced that it will receive support from several allied organizations during the agitation. These include the Jharkhand Pradesh Yuva Andolankari Morcha, Jharkhand Visthapit Sangharsh Morcha, and Khatiyani Pariwar, highlighting a united front in pressing for the demands.
The protest underscores ongoing tensions between state activists and the government over issues of recognition and welfare, with JASM leveraging collective action to seek resolution. The indefinite nature of the dharna signals a prolonged confrontation unless the state addresses the grievances promptly.
