JMM Accuses Marandi of Cheap Publicity Tactics

Ranchi: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has accused Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president and Leader of Opposition, Babulal Marandi, of using cheap publicity stunts by alleging threats to his life and claims that the government is trying to implicate him in false cases.

JMM General Secretary and spokesperson Vinod Kumar Pandey dismissed Marandi’s allegations as baseless and politically motivated. Calling the claims "absurd," he said they were merely a ploy to seek attention.

“Mr. Babulal Marandi, who served as Jharkhand’s first Chief Minister and currently holds the position of Leader of Opposition, should maintain the dignity of his office. Such unfounded and shallow statements only reveal his discomfort with Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s growing popularity and his pro-people policies,” said Pandey.

He further alleged that Marandi’s actions are hindering Jharkhand’s progress. “Whenever the government takes firm action against corruption, Mr. Marandi seems unsettled and questions the Anti-Corruption Bureau. He needs to explain why someone holding a constitutional post is pressuring an independent investigating agency,” Pandey added.

Pandey also criticized Marandi for opposing welfare initiatives like the proposed RIMS-2 hospital in Ranchi. “The BJP’s opposition to such development projects does not reflect the role of a constructive opposition. The people of Jharkhand want progress, not political disruption,” he said.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency, Pandey highlighted reforms in recruitment processes such as JSSC and JPSC and measures taken to prevent misuse of rural development schemes.

“Mr. Marandi’s allegations are not only laughable but a deliberate distraction from real issues. The JMM urges the BJP and Mr. Marandi to act responsibly and contribute positively to the state’s development,” Pandey stated.

He also called on the BJP to support key state demands, including recognition of the Sarna religious code, recovery of ?1.40 lakh crore in coal royalty dues from the central government, and the pending proposal to increase reservation quotas.