Jharkhand rights forum slams political class on 25th statehood anniversary

By A Representative 

Marking the 25th anniversary of Jharkhand’s formation, the Jharkhand Janadhikar Mahasabha (JJM) has issued an open letter to Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and political leaders across parties, expressing “deep disappointment” over the state’s direction and urging leaders to “mend their ways.”

The Mahasabha, a collective of social activists and people’s organizations, recalled the sacrifices made during the movement for a separate Jharkhand. It said the dream of creating a state that would empower adivasis and moolvasis through self-rule, equality, and harmony with nature had been “betrayed.”

The letter asserts that while living standards may have marginally improved, “millions are still living in grinding poverty,” and Jharkhand’s civilization in regions such as Chhotanagpur and Santhal Parganas is “threatened with destruction” due to the exploitation of land and minerals by private companies. It laments that once self-reliant farmers are now turning into wage labourers and migrating to cities, eroding Jharkhand’s distinct identity.

Accusing the state’s political leadership of collusion with exploitative interests, the Mahasabha charged that leaders have “sold Jharkhand’s rich resources to greedy businesses” and enriched themselves at the cost of the poor. It also alleged large-scale corruption in welfare schemes like MGNREGA, violations of the CNT and SPT land protection laws, and failure to implement provisions of the Forest Rights Act and PESA.

The open letter further criticized the political class for allowing deterioration in education and employment opportunities, claiming that lakhs of youth have been forced into migrant labour. It also accused some leaders of dividing communities for political gain, undermining the unity once symbolized by the slogan “Dhan naheen, ek sahee” (unity, not wealth).

The Mahasabha warned that if political leaders fail to correct course, public rejection may be inevitable. “We already count some of you as our comrades, and we have some hope from others too,” the letter said, adding that a new generation of leaders rooted in people’s interests is needed.

Concluding on a note of resolve, the forum stated it would “continue to work for change in our own way,” reaffirming its commitment to the founding vision of Jharkhand as a state for justice, equality, and dignity for its people.