Jharkhand Braces for Statewide Bandh as Tribal Groups Demand Justice
Multiple tribal organizations across Jharkhand have united to call for a complete bandh this Saturday. Their primary demand is the immediate arrest of the key accused involved in the murder of their revered traditional leader, Soma Munda. The tragic incident occurred in Khunti district on January 7, sparking widespread outrage among tribal communities.
Protests and Rallies Intensify Across the State
In preparation for the bandh, various groups have already begun mobilizing support through public demonstrations. Torchlight rallies illuminated several locations throughout Jharkhand, including Khunti district itself. These rallies served as a powerful visual statement of solidarity and a call to action.
The Adaivasi Samanvaya Samiti organized a significant procession in Khunti. Participants marched from the Karam Akhada to Shaheed Bhagat Singh Chowk, their voices echoing with slogans. They demanded not only the swift arrest of the main suspects but also a thorough investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the murder.
Widespread Support and Specific Exemptions
Marshal Barla, the convener of the Samiti, confirmed the growing support for the shutdown. "Around 35 tribal organisations from across the state have supported our call," he stated. He also clarified that the bandh would not disrupt essential services. The supply of milk, ambulance operations, and medicine shops will remain functional during the protest.
This is not the first action taken since the leader's death. Tribal bodies previously observed a Khunti bandh on January 8 to protest the murder. The momentum has now expanded to a statewide scale.
Impact on Daily Life in Ranchi
The capital city of Ranchi is preparing for significant disruptions. In anticipation of the bandh, many schools have proactively declared a holiday for Saturday. Affected institutions include:
- Chiranjeevi Concept School
- Hill Top School
- Oxford Public School
Sukhnnath Lohra, the state convenor of the Adivasi Adhikar Manch, announced his organization's full support for the bandh call. He warned that protestors plan to stage road blockades at several key locations within Ranchi city, which is expected to cause major traffic disruptions.
The situation remains tense as authorities and citizens await Saturday's developments. The unified demand from tribal groups underscores a deep-seated call for justice and accountability in the wake of Soma Munda's killing.
