In a significant move ahead of the Jharkhand Assembly elections, Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) manifesto on Sunday. The party has outlined an ambitious set of promises, notably pledging to provide Rs 2,100 monthly to every woman in the state should they return to power. The manifesto aims to resonate with the electorate, particularly focusing on women’s empowerment, youth employment, and the protection of tribal rights.
Among the central promises laid out in the manifesto, the BJP has emphasised the provision of LPG cylinders at a subsidised rate of Rs 500, along with two free cylinders for each household annually. This initiative is aimed at alleviating the financial burden on families, particularly in the festive seasons of Diwali and Rakshabandhan, as promised by Shah during the manifesto launch.
In a strong stance on tribal rights, the BJP has committed to restoring lands occupied by infiltrators back to the indigenous tribal communities. Shah stressed that marriages between tribals and children of infiltrators would not confer tribal status, reinforcing the party’s focus on protecting the identity and rights of local populations. Additionally, the manifesto stated that tribals would be exempt from the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC), a move that aims to reassure tribal communities of their cultural autonomy.
Another major highlight of the manifesto is the promise to create five lakh self-employment opportunities for the youth over the next five years. The BJP also pledged to fill 2,87,500 government positions with a transparent recruitment process, aiming to begin in the first cabinet meeting and to complete the hiring for 1.5 lakh positions by November 2025. Furthermore, the party plans to establish an annual calendar for all examinations, addressing ongoing concerns regarding the integrity of the recruitment process.
Shah specifically mentioned the BJP’s commitment to combat the recent spate of examination paper leaks that has plagued the state. He promised strict actions against those involved in the paper leak mafia, declaring that if the BJP is elected, they would “hang the paper mafia upside down.” This tough stance seeks to restore faith in the examination and recruitment system, which is a pressing concern for many young people in Jharkhand.
During the launch event in Ranchi, Shah took a direct jab at the current Hemant Soren government, accusing it of failing to protect the interests of tribal communities. He highlighted a perceived increase in the number of infiltrators in the state, claiming that the safety of tribals is at risk under the existing administration. Shah expressed grave concerns over the cultural and social impact of infiltration, asserting that “neither the culture of Jharkhand, nor the employment, land, or daughters here will be safe” if the situation continues unchecked.
Shah pointed out incidents of communal tension under the Soren government, referring to attacks on religious processions and the suppression of cultural expressions. He stated, “There will be such a rule of law here in which those who do such acts will be sent behind bars through the law; no one will dare to do such things.” This rhetoric aims to galvanise support among voters who are concerned about law and order issues.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the BJP manifesto, highlighting its focus on development and the empowerment of women and youth. He expressed hope for a positive change in Jharkhand, stating, “Today we are among the people of Jharkhand with a new hope.” Modi reiterated the BJP’s commitment to protecting the rights of tribals while ensuring economic growth and social stability in the region.
As Jharkhand prepares for its Assembly elections, set to take place in two phases on November 13 and 20, the BJP’s manifesto seeks to position the party as a champion of women’s rights, youth employment, and tribal sovereignty. The emphasis on addressing infiltrations and restoring law and order resonates with a significant segment of the electorate, while the financial incentives aimed at women may help to secure crucial votes. The results, to be counted on November 23, will determine whether these promises translate into electoral success for the BJP.