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Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister and a prominent figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has made a significant statement regarding the upcoming elections in Jharkhand. Addressing a campaign rally in Seraikela, Shah declared that a BJP-led government in the state would introduce legislation to prevent land transfer to individuals they label as “infiltrators.” This legislation would specifically target those who have married tribal women. Shah further accused the incumbent Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led regime of “patronising Bangladeshi infiltrators.”
Shah’s pronouncements have heightened tensions in the state’s political landscape. He claims that the tribal population in Jharkhand is declining and that “infiltrators” are seizing land by marrying tribal women. To address this perceived threat, the BJP has pledged to establish a committee tasked with identifying and expelling “infiltrators” and reclaiming the land allegedly taken by them. The BJP's focus on “infiltration” and land ownership has become a central theme in their campaign strategy.
The JMM-led government, comprised of the Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), has been criticized by Shah for its perceived inaction against “infiltrators.” He asserts that former Jharkhand chief minister Champai Soren was “insulted” when he attempted to raise the issue of alleged infiltrators and was ultimately forced to resign under pressure from JMM vice-president and current CM Hemant Soren. Shah has also leveled accusations of corruption against the current coalition government, claiming involvement in various scams related to MNREGA, land, mining, and liquor, alleging that they have misappropriated funds sent by the Centre.
Shah’s remarks have drawn criticism from opposition parties who accuse the BJP of exploiting anxieties about “infiltration” for political gain. The issue of land ownership and its connection to tribal communities is deeply complex and has historical roots. The BJP's rhetoric about “infiltrators” raises concerns about the potential for discrimination and harassment against marginalized groups. The upcoming elections in Jharkhand will be closely watched as the BJP seeks to capitalize on these anxieties and consolidate its position in the state.