The Jharkhand Assembly erupted in debate Thursday as members questioned the state government on surging illegal transfers of tribal lands and questionable use of TSP allocations. Day seven of the budget session spotlighted these longstanding grievances, forcing ministers to defend their record on indigenous protections.
Congress MLA Naman Viksal Kongari delivered a scathing critique, linking land scams to demographic shifts that threaten tribal identity. ‘These encroachments impact our politics, languages, and traditions. Ranchi has transitioned from reserved to open territory due to lax oversight and mapless constructions,’ he charged.
Revenue Minister Deepak Birua countered by detailing compliance with the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, including land restitution processes and scrutiny of illicit permissions. He transparently noted the data gap on statewide figures but pledged a comprehensive review.
Fellow minister Sudivya Sonu promised enforcement of law against perpetrators. Shifting focus, Khijri’s Rajesh Kachhap grilled authorities on TSP fund leakages. Minister Chamra Linda responded that funds arrive proportionally from the Centre, but utilization lacks defined protocols—a gap the government aims to bridge soon.
Interjecting constructively, the Speaker urged adopting successful models from peer states. This exchange reveals systemic challenges in Jharkhand, where resource wealth often clashes with community rights. As promises of action hang in the air, tribal leaders and activists await tangible outcomes. The session serves as a wake-up call for policy reforms to prevent further marginalization.