Sarna Dharma Code is a question of tribal identity: JMM

 

Ranchi: Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has reacted sharply to the allegations leveled by BJP on JMM on the issue of Sarna Dharma Code. JMM General Secretary cum Spokesperson Vinod Kumar Pandey retorted by saying that BJP has no concern with the interests of tribals, it only raises issues for political selfishness. He said that Sarna Dharma Code is a question of tribal identity and cultural identity, about which JMM has been serious. BJP has always ignored the demands of tribals and has tried to crush their rights. Mr. Pandey alleged that the BJP government never took any sincere initiative in support of Sarna Dharma Code either before or after 2014. On the contrary, their governments have worked against tribals on important issues like Forest Rights Act and Local Policy.

        He said that the demand for Sarna Dharma Code is not new, but it is a years old social demand, which BJP is now making a political issue. BJP should answer why their government did not implement this code in so many years. Despite being in power for more than 10 years at the center, BJP has maintained silence on this issue. Terming BJP's statement as ridiculous, he said that the party which wants to snatch the land of tribals and hand it over to corporates is shedding crocodile tears today. JMM General Secretary clarified that Chief Minister Hemant Soren's government is serious about Sarna Dharma Code and is putting pressure on the central government to implement it as soon as possible. He questioned BJP whether it will bring a proposal in Parliament in support of this code or will it just work to incite public sentiments. The public has now understood the tricks of BJP and will give a befitting reply to it in the upcoming elections.