In Jhargram constituency in western West Bengal, a political battle is brewing as the BJP and the TMC vie for control over the Scheduled Tribe-reserved seat. With the TMC reclaiming all seven assembly segments of Jhargram in the 2021 state elections, after losing to the BJP previously, the political landscape in the region is shifting.
However, amidst this political tussle, the demand for Scheduled Tribe status by the Kurmis, a traditional tiller community listed as OBCs in West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha, is causing tension in Jhargram. This demand has led to divisions among the inhabitants, with the majority Adivasis opposing the Kurmis' bid for ST status, fearing it might dilute their own constitutional protections.
Both the Trinamool Congress and the BJP are handling this issue delicately, recognizing its sensitive nature. While the TMC has promised in its manifesto to work towards obtaining ST status for the Kurmi-Mahato community, the BJP has chosen to remain silent on the matter, leading to concerns among the Kurmi community about the lack of progress on their demand.
The political situation in Jhargram is further complicated by the emergence of a new party, the Jungal Mahal Swaraj Morcha, led by a local Kurmi leader. This new development underscores the growing impatience among the Kurmis and their willingness to pursue their demands through alternative political avenues. Amidst all this, the elections in Jhargram have become not only about political power but also about addressing the longstanding issue of ST status for the Kurmi community.