Ranchi: Campaigning for the second and final phase of elections in Jharkhand came to an end on Monday. Union Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, played a key role in formulating strategies and leading the BJP’s campaign efforts in the state. As the election in-charge for the state, he worked tirelessly at the grassroots level to boost the morale of party workers and ensure better coordination and alignment where needed.
Even on the last day of campaigning, his schedule remained packed. He participated in multiple roadshows and addressed public gatherings. Chouhan is confident that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will form a majority government in Jharkhand. During a brief break from his hectic schedule, he spoke at length with Dainik Jagran’s state bureau chief, Pradeep Singh, about the elections.
Q: You’ve spent considerable time in Jharkhand during this election. How do you assess the BJP’s position now compared to when you began your work here?
A: For me, this election is a mission. It is truly an election to transform Jharkhand. The situation here is critical, with challenges affecting livelihoods and safety. This is not just about votes but about the future of the state and the country. The people of Jharkhand have made up their minds for change.
In the last Lok Sabha elections, we performed well, winning nine seats. Initially, some thought the opposition alliance might bring the government back, but now the ground reality is different. The people are angry due to rampant corruption—nothing happens here without bribery.
Foreign infiltration is a serious issue, and the safety of women and girls is deeply concerning. Over 7,400 rape cases have been reported. Promises made to the youth about employment remain unfulfilled. The people are eager for change, and in the first phase, we’ve secured over two-thirds of the seats. I am confident we will achieve great results in the second phase as well.
Q: After the first phase, what is your expectation for the BJP’s seat count?
A: I firmly believe we will achieve a strong majority. Our confidence is backed by the feedback from all levels of our organization.
Q: The opposition alliance is projecting Hemant Soren as their chief ministerial face. Who will the BJP present as its CM candidate?
A: Hemant Soren is on his way out and will go down in history as the most corrupt chief minister. As for the BJP, our Parliamentary Board will decide the CM after consulting with our MLAs.
Q: The issues vary across regions in Jharkhand. What are the key issues driving the demand for change?
A: Employment is the biggest issue for the youth, who feel betrayed by false promises. Recruitment exams have been marred by paper leaks and irregularities, leaving students angry. Women seek safety and empowerment, and farmers want their paddy purchased at fair prices.
Our government will purchase paddy at ₹3,100 per quintal and introduce schemes like “Gogo Didi” to transfer ₹2,100 monthly to women’s accounts. We also plan to fill 287,000 vacant posts, provide free gas cylinders, and ensure governance without corruption.
Q: The BJP criticizes freebie schemes as “revdi culture.” Yet, your party has made similar promises in Jharkhand. How do you justify this?
A: Our schemes are well-calculated and based on available budgets. They focus on welfare rather than populism. For instance, in Odisha and Chhattisgarh, benefits like direct cash transfers were implemented long before elections. Programs like “Ladli Behna” in Madhya Pradesh are about empowerment, not election tactics.
Q: The BJP struggled on tribal-reserved seats in past elections. How do you plan to win them back?
A: Our preparation is robust. In Kolhan, where we had no seats last time, we are now set for significant success. Our outreach is based on addressing corruption and ensuring development. Tribals trust us because our manifesto aligns with their aspirations.
Q: Conversion and reservation for converts are contentious issues. What’s the BJP’s stance?
A: The BJP opposes forced conversions through greed, fear, or coercion. We have advocated strict laws against such practices and will continue to protect the rights of the vulnerable.
Q: The BJP opposes dynastic politics but has fielded relatives of leaders in Jharkhand. Isn’t this contradictory?
A: Dynastic politics means one family monopolizing power, like the Nehru-Gandhi or Lalu Yadav families. However, if an active and deserving family member earns a ticket, it isn’t dynasty politics but recognition of merit.
Q: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called the BJP a “venomous snake.” Your response?
A: This reflects the hate-filled mindset of Congress. Rahul Gandhi claims to spread love but uses divisive language. India has always believed in “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family). Such statements reveal their desperation as they face defeat across states.
Q: Jharkhand has immense potential. What are your aspirations for the state?
A: Jharkhand is a land rich in resources but home to poor people. Under BJP governments, progress has been rapid. We aim to transform Jharkhand into India’s leading state by utilizing its wealth, generating jobs, empowering women, and fostering investment.
Q: Any memorable experiences from your visits to Jharkhand?
A: The people here are incredibly warm and hospitable. I’ve shared meals in tribal households and felt deeply moved by their simplicity and love. Serving these people is an honor, and I am committed to their well-being under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.
Q: Your name has been mentioned for BJP’s national president. Any thoughts?
A: I am focused on my current responsibilities as Agriculture and Rural Development Minister. As a disciplined BJP worker, I serve wherever the party assigns me. My sole aim is to fulfill my duties with dedication.
