Tinsukia: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Sunday criticised the BJP-led Assam government, accusing it of following a “divide and rule” policy to exploit tribal communities. He urged Adivasis, including tea-tribes, to remain alert and united as the Assam Assembly elections approach.
Hemant Soren was speaking at a Tribal Mahasabha organised by the All Adivasi Students’ Association of Assam (AASAA) in Tinsukia, which he attended on a special invitation. His visit is seen as politically significant, coming after his party Jharkhand Mukti Morcha’s (JMM) victory in the 2024 Jharkhand Assembly elections. The JMM is also considering contesting elections in the Northeast.
Addressing the gathering, Hemant said the present rulers in Assam had divided people through “wrong policies” and warned tribals to stay united during the election period. He recalled how his father, Shibu Soren, had worked for the welfare of tribals in Assam, many of whom had migrated from Jharkhand to work in tea gardens. He promised to continue working for their welfare.
Targeting the Assam government, Hemant said the current leaders were “businessmen, not politicians,” and accused them of ignoring tribal interests. He also spoke about his imprisonment two years ago, saying he did not lose courage and fought back strongly. He highlighted welfare schemes in Jharkhand, including a monthly assistance of Rs 2,500 to women, including tribal women, for their empowerment.
