Hemant Soren Accuses BJP Leaders of Provoking Communal Tensions

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren accused BJP leaders of provoking communal tensions in the state ahead of assembly elections. At a government function, Soren waived Rs 400 crore of farm loans for 1.77 lakh farmers. He criticized the BJP for disregarding Jharkhand's natural resources and undermining the welfare of farmers.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Thursday accused BJP leaders of provoking communal tensions in the state in the name of caste and religion. The accusations came amid heightened political activity as the assembly elections draw near.

Soren, who was addressing a government function in Ranchi, announced the waiver of Rs 400 crore in farm loans, benefiting around 1.77 lakh farmers. This follows an earlier government initiative that waived farm loans up to Rs 50,000 for approximately 4.73 lakh farmers.

Soren launched a scathing attack on the BJP, accusing the party of ruining the state's natural resources and ignoring the welfare of farmers. He claimed that BJP leaders, currently visible due to the election season, would disappear post-elections. He further alleged that the BJP-led central government planned to sell farmers to traders through controversial farm laws, leading to year-long protests that forced a government rollback.

(With inputs from agencies.)