Ranchi, August 27: In a significant political shift, former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren announced his decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), citing his concerns over rising illegal immigration in the Santhal Pargana region and the growing threat it poses to tribal identity and rights.
In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), Soren addressed his supporters, revealing the reasons behind his decision. He mentioned that, after engaging with people from various parts of Jharkhand, particularly the Kolhan region, he realized that the public is firmly backing him and opposed to his earlier contemplation of retiring from politics. “The people of Kolhan have stood by me at every step and have rejected the option of my retirement,” Soren stated.
He expressed his dissatisfaction with the internal workings of his former party, where he felt there was no platform for him to voice his concerns. “There was no forum within the party where I could express my grievances, and senior leaders have distanced themselves from politics due to health reasons,” Soren lamented.
Focusing on the Santhal Pargana region, Soren highlighted the growing problem of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. He stressed that these infiltrators have become a significant threat, encroaching on the lands of tribal communities who once resisted British colonialism. “It’s tragic that the descendants of those brave fighters who never bowed down to foreign rule are now losing their lands to these infiltrators. Moreover, our mothers, sisters, and daughters, who regard freedom fighters like Phulo-Jhano as their role models, are now facing threats to their safety due to these illegal activities,” he said.
Soren warned that if the unchecked immigration continues, it would jeopardize the existence of indigenous communities in Santhal Pargana. “In regions like Pakur and Rajmahal, the population of these infiltrators has already outnumbered the local tribal communities. This issue transcends politics and needs to be addressed as a social movement if we are to protect the existence of our people,” Soren asserted.
In his post, Soren criticized other political parties for ignoring this serious issue for the sake of vote bank politics. He noted that the BJP is the only party taking this matter seriously. “The BJP is the only party showing concern on this issue, while others are turning a blind eye just for votes,” he remarked.
Soren also revealed that he has placed his trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, and has decided to join the BJP under their leadership. “To save tribal identity and existence, I have chosen to align with the BJP, trusting in the leadership of PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah,” he wrote.
As Soren embarks on this new chapter in his political journey, he urged the people of Jharkhand, including tribals, Dalits, backward communities, farmers, women, youth, and the working class, to support him in his fight for their rights and well-being.
With this move, Champai Soren is expected to bring a significant tribal support base to the BJP in Jharkhand, potentially altering the political dynamics in the state. As the 2024 elections draw near, his decision could play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative around tribal rights and regional issues.
News – Sanjana Kumari.
