Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren Launches Scathing Attack on Election Commission During Purulia Campaign
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, while campaigning for the Trinamool Congress in Purulia on Saturday, delivered a sharp and direct attack on the Election Commission of India. He alleged that the constitutional body was acting as an instrument of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the context of the ongoing West Bengal elections.
Allegations of Partisan Conduct and Multi-Phase Polling
"Everywhere else in the country, elections are being conducted in a single phase. In Bengal alone, they are being held in two phases. Do you know why?" Soren questioned the gathered crowds. "The BJP is not contesting these elections — this battle is being fought by the Election Commission itself." He further claimed that forces from across the nation had been deployed to the state to intimidate the poor and destitute sections of society.
Asserting the resilience of the electorate, Soren declared, "No matter how many obstacles they create with sticks, guns, and batons, the voting process cannot be stopped by anyone." His remarks highlighted a tense atmosphere surrounding the electoral process in the region.
Rallies in Tribal-Dominated Border Areas
The Chief Minister addressed three rallies, all of which drew large and enthusiastic crowds. These assemblies were held in largely tribal-dominated assembly segments bordering Jharkhand. Attendees were seen carrying traditional dhamsa-madol drums and bows and arrows, showcasing local cultural symbols.
During his speeches, Soren invoked the legacy of tribal icons and leaders. He praised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's work for adivasi, dalit, backward, and minority communities. Specifically, he highlighted Bengal's model for education within adivasi and Santhal communities, noting that Jharkhand was actively seeking to study and replicate this successful framework.
Direct Criticism of BJP and Call for Democratic Unity
Turning his focus directly to the BJP, Hemant Soren labeled the party as "simply anti-Adivasi". He urged voters, particularly from tribal communities, to reflect deeply on the exploitation and challenges faced by Adivasis in states currently governed by the BJP.
At a subsequent rally in Purulia, the Jharkhand CM issued a broader warning about the state of Indian democracy. "Attempts are underway across the entire country to weaken our democratic institutions and to divide society along various lines," he stated.
He concluded with a powerful appeal to the people of Bengal: "The people of Bengal must send a strong and unequivocal message that politics here will be dedicated to development, brotherhood, and dignity — not to the politics of fear and division." His campaign rhetoric positioned the Trinamool Congress as the guardian of inclusive development against what he portrayed as divisive forces.
