Jharkhand migrants denied five months' wages in Cameroon, seek urgent government intervention
RANCHI: Five migrant workers from Hazaribagh and Giridih districts of Jharkhand are stranded in Cameroon after not being paid their wages for the past five months. In a video message sent to their families, the workers said they have run out of money and are facing serious difficulties in managing accommodation and food. In the video, the stranded workers described their plight and appealed for their immediate repatriation to India. Speaking to TNIE , one of the migrants said that despite repeated requests, they have been denied their wages by the company they were working for. We have been running from pillar to post to get our hard-earned money. We contacted the company management, they said that the outsource company will pay your wages, and when we asked the outsource company for it, they said that they dont have the money to pay us, asking us to stop the work, said Sunil Mahto, one of the migrants stranded in Cameroon. According to Mahto, after the outsourcing company asked them to stop working on 19 November, they have been sitting idle in a foreign country and struggling for food and accommodation. Mahto said they reached Cameroon in MarchApril for livelihood opportunities but have been denied their wages, which he described as very painful. They had been working for Kalpataru Project International Limited and were hired by the outsourcing firm, Shubhra Engineering Services and Sales Limited, based in Kerala. We were told in India that we will be working from the company, but after reaching there, we found that we have been hired by the outsource company. When we demanded an agreement letter in India, we were told that it will be provided to us only after reaching the site, said Mahto. He added that officials of the outsourcing company are now not picking up their phone calls. Mahto said they were hired to lay power transmission lines in the central African country. When contacted, officials in the State Migrant Control Room said they have sought documents of the five migrants and are taking up the issue with the Indian Embassy in Cameroon to arrange for their safe return. The stranded migrant workers have been identified as Sunil Mahato, Sukar Mahato, Chandrashekhar Kumar and Deelo Mahato, all residents of Bishnugarh (Unchaghana) in Hazaribagh, and Dilchand Mahato, a resident of Dumri in Giridih district. Earlier, as many as 48 workers from Giridih, Bokaro and Hazaribagh districts were stranded in Tunisia for six months under extremely difficult conditions. In a video message on 30 October, those workers had sought help from the Indian government for their safe return. They were finally brought home after government intervention.
Ranchi Diary | Desi Magur is the state fish of Jharkhand
In a move aimed at protecting local aquatic life, the Jharkhand Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, has officially declared Desi Magur (Clarias magur) as the State Fish. The decision is in line with the recommendations from ICARNational Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICARNBFGR), which identified the Clarias magur as an emblematic species deserving of state recognition. Native to Jharkhands rivers, ponds, and wetlands, the hardy, air-breathing catfish is expected to help promote sustainable aquaculture. Man impersonates Soren to call Karnataka Dy CM The Chief Ministers Office in Jharkhand has filed an FIR after an unidentified man, who posed as Chief Minister Hemant Soren and called Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and his wife on November 15, around 9.50 pm. The complaint, filed by CMs personal secretary Jai Prasad, states that the same number had previously been used to harass former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. The CMO has condemned the act as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the CMs image and mislead VIPs. Congress talent hunt for spokespersons in state The Jharkhand Congress is set to begin a state-wide talent hunt to recruit spokespersons at the state and regional levels. The partys National Media Talent Hunt initiative looks to find people who are committed to the partys ideals, understand the Constitution well, are politically aware, and can communicate effectively. For the exercise, the state has been divided into seven zonesPalamu, Kolhan; Deoghar-Dumka-Jamtara; Sahibganj-Godda-Pakur; Ramgarh-Chatra-Koderma-Hazaribagh; Bokaro-Dhanbad-Giridih; and South Chotanagpur. Mukesh Ranjan Our correspondent in Jharkhand mukesh.r@newindianexpress.com
24 injured as two buses collide in Jharkhands Dhanbad
DHANBAD: At least 24 people were injured after two buses collided in Jharkhands Dhanbad district, police said on Tuesday. The condition of six of the injured is reported to be critical, officials added. The accident occurred near the Chali Bangla flyover under the Rajganj police station limits at around 11.30 pm on Monday. Around 100 devotees were travelling in one of the buses to attend a religious festival in Bokaro from the Nala and Kundihi areas of Jamtara district, when another speeding bus rammed into it, a police officer said. The injured were admitted to Shahid Nirmal Mahto Medical College and Hospital (SNMMCH). Traffic movement on the KolkataDelhi lane of the Grand Trunk Road was briefly affected due to the collision, the officer added.
Jharkhand migrants in Tunisia receive dues, set to return home on November 5 after L&T intervention
RANCHI: After the intervention of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the company that had outsourced the work to Prem Power Constructions Limited, arrangements have been finalised for the safe return of all 48 migrant workers stranded in Tunisia for the past few months. According to a video released by the stranded workers, they have allegedly been paid their pending dues, and their tickets have been booked by Larsen & Toubro. As per information released by L&T, all the workers will depart from Tunis for Mumbais Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on 5 November. After arriving in Mumbai, they will travel to their home state of Jharkhand. Meanwhile, the workers have expressed their gratitude to the company, saying they were recording the video footage without any pressure from anybody. On October 30, we had sent a video footage to our family and friends accusing Prem Power Constructions Limited and Larsen & Toubro for our trouble, but the latter has nothing to do with our payments, stated one of the migrants in his video message. Despite that, Larsen & Toubro officials intervened on October 31 and made Prem Power Constructions Limited clear our payments and book our return tickets without any conditions, he added. 48 Jharkhand migrant workers stranded in Tunisia for three months; seek government intervention The migrants further expressed their gratefulness to Larsen & Toubro and apologised for unintentionally dragging the companys name into the entire episode, stating that it had nothing to do with their plight. Notably, as many as 48 workers from Jharkhands Giridih, Bokaro, and Hazaribagh districts have been stranded in the African nation of Tunisia for several months under extremely difficult conditions. Through a video message on October 30, these workers had sought help from the Indian government for their safe return home. In the earlier video, they had informed that their salaries had allegedly been withheld for the last four months and that they were starving as they had no food to eat. They appealed to the Indian government for their speedy repatriation and payment of their pending wages. According to the migrants, they were told they would be working as company employees, but after landing in Tunisia, they discovered that it was a contractual job. Moreover, they alleged that although they were promised an eight-hour workday, they were made to work for over 12 hours a day. As soon as the video was released by the migrants, The New Indian Express flagged the issue and carried the report prominently in its online edition on October 31 and in its print edition on November 1.
As many as 48 migrant workers from Jharkhand's Giridih, Bokaro, and Hazaribagh districts are reportedly stranded in North African country, Tunisia, facing dire conditions for three months. They've appealed to the Indian government for assistance in returning home through a video message.
48 Jharkhand migrant workers stranded in Tunisia for three months; seek government intervention
RANCHI: As many as 48 migrant workers from Jharkhands Giridih, Bokaro and Hazaribagh districts have allegedly been stranded in the African country of Tunisia for the past three months under extremely difficult conditions. Through a video message, these workers have sought help from the Indian government for their safe return to their homes. In the video message, the workers informed that their salaries have been withheld for the last six months and that they are starving as they have no food to eat. They appealed to the Indian government for their speedy return and payment of their pending wages. According to the migrant workers, they were told that they would be working as company employees, but after landing in Tunisia, they discovered that it was a contractual job. Moreover, they were informed that they would have to work only eight hours a day, but were made to work for over 12 hours daily. When we opposed, they started threatening that we will be put in jails and will never be able to return to our country, said one of the migrant workers, Amardeep Choudhary. They alleged that they have been duped by Prem Power Constructions. Now, we want to return home somehow, but the company is not letting us go, they said in the video message. They further alleged that they were not receiving proper payment for their work. Social activist Sikandar Ali, who works for the cause of migrant labourers, has demanded immediate intervention from the central and state governments in this matter. According to Sikandar Ali, the problem of migrant workers stranded abroad is not new, as many have fallen prey to fraudulent activities in the past. He also urged the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure their safe return and to focus on creating employment opportunities in the state so that workers do not have to migrate for livelihood. Those stranded in Tunisia include nine workers from Vishnugarh in Hazaribagh, 14 from Bagodar, Sariya, Pirtand and Giridih blocks of Giridih district, and 15 from Chandrapura, Gomia and Petarwar areas of Bokaro. Among these workers are Amardeep Choudhary, Nandlal Mahato, Ajay Kumar, Gurucharan Mahato, Lalu Karmali and Sunil Tudu. Notably, a few months ago, several workers from Jharkhand were stranded in Niger, South Africa, some of whom reportedly remain unaccounted for.
IRB jawan shot dead in Jharkhand's Bokaro
BOKARO: An Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) jawan was allegedly shot dead by a man over a minor dispute in Jharkhand's Bokaro district, police said on Tuesday. The deceased jawan has been identified as Ajay Yadav (25), a resident of Yaduvansh Nagar in Adarsh Colony under the jurisdiction of Chas police station. According to the police, Yadav was posted in Giridih district and had returned to his hometown in Chas during Chhath Puja holiday. The incident took place on Monday evening. An argument broke out between the jawan and a youth named Balram Tiwari over some issue. The verbal spat soon escalated into a scuffle. Balram initially left the scene. After some time, he returned with a pistol and fired three rounds at the jawan's stomach, Chas Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Praveen Kumar Singh said. He said Yadav was rushed to Bokaro General Hospital (BGH), where doctors declared him brought dead. The SDPO added that an FIR has been lodged and that the police are investigating the case. They were also conducting raids at multiple locations to arrest the accused and his accomplices.
Jharkhand's Kurmi community warns to boycott Ghatshila by-polls if denied ST-status
RANCHI: The Kurmi community has threatened to boycott the by-poll and abstain from voting if the central and state governments do not come forward to negotiate the Kurmi community's three-point demands within 15 days. Their three-point demands include, ST-status, government recognition of the Sarna religion, and inclusion of the Kurmali language in the Eighth Schedule. Notably, the Kurmi community has long demanded inclusion in the list of Scheduled Tribes (ST) and recognition of the Kurmali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, with their push intensifying in recent years. The first major protest began in 2022 and continued for nine days. Recently on September 20, they had launched a statewide Rail Teka Dahar Chheka (Train and Road Blocked) Movement across Jharkhand to press their long-standing demand for ST status, disrupting several trains passing through the state. Protesters had also taken to the tracks at stations including Muri, Tatisilwai, and Mesra, adjacent to the capital, Ranchi. Similar blockades were seen in Bokaro and Giridih, where protesters took control of smaller railway stations, in some places as early as 4:00 am. According to Kurmi activist Amit Mahto, the decision has been taken in the interest of the community's rights and privileges. 'This is a fight for our identity': Jharkhand tribals to rally against Kurmi ST push This time, candidates in Ghatsila will have to work hard to garner votes, as 30,000 to 40,000 members of the Kurmi community will abstain from voting, said Amit Mahto. If the government initiates negotiations on the three-point demands within 15 days, they will reconsider the boycott, he added. Mahto informed that an awareness campaign is being launched regarding the three demands to make everyone in the community aware of their rights. So far, the campaign has been conducted in 93 villages, he said. A meeting of the Kurmi community has also been called in Ghatsila on October 26, where leaders of the community will gather and urge the government to fulfill their demands, said Mahto. According to the agitating leaders, the Kurmi community was listed among the aboriginal tribes under notification no. 550 in 1913 during the British era. However, when the Centre notified ST lists on September 6, 1950, Kurmis were put placed in the list of other backward castes (OBC) in Bihar, Bengal, and Odisha.
Jharkhand bypoll: Ghatsila to witness three-cornered contest with JLKM fielding candidate
The JLKM was said to have played a spoilsport for national alliances, including the NDA in several seats, particularly in Bokaro, Ramgarh, Gomia, Dhanbad and Giridih belt of the state, in the 2024 Assembly polls
Cloudy Skies to Cover 14 Jharkhand Districts from October 16
Ranchi, October 15 (Daily Kiran): The weather department has forecast partly cloudy skies over 14 districts of Jharkhand on Thursday and Friday. According to the Meteorological Department, the districts likely to experience partial cloud cover include Ranchi, Ramgarh, Khunti, Hazaribagh, Bokaro, Gumla, Dhanbad, Koderma, and Lohardaga in central Jharkhand, along with Garhwa, Palamu, Chatra, and ... Read more Cloudy Skies to Cover 14 Jharkhand Districts from October 16
Jharkhand: Huge cache of arms and ammunitions recovered from Maoist hideout
RANCHI: Security forces have recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition from a Maoist hideout during a search operation conducted in the border areas of Bokaro and Hazaribagh. The operation was carried out by a joint team of Jharkhand Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The recovered items include two SLR rifles, magazines, a large number of cartridges, backpacks, clothing, and various daily-use items. This recovery is considered crucial in foiling a major Maoist conspiracy. The operation was launched following specific intelligence inputs indicating that a group of Maoists was camping in the dense forest and plotting a significant strike in the region. Hazaribagh SP Anjani Anjan confirmed that the operation was based on intelligence suggesting that some members of the Maoist organization were active in the forest area bordering Bokaro and Hazaribagh. To verify the information, a joint operation by the CRPF and district police was immediately launched in the region. During the search, weapons and other items were recovered from a hideout in the forest, said the SP. He also highlighted the crucial role played by the CRPF in the operation. According to the SP, the recovered weapons indicate that the Maoists were planning a major incident. Their plot was foiled due to the prompt and coordinated action of the police, he added. Following the recovery, security forces have intensified combing operations in the region. Additional personnel have been deployed in the forest areas to monitor possible Maoist movements, and continuous patrolling is being conducted along the border areas. The SP further informed that this campaign against Maoists is part of a statewide strategy that will be further intensified in the coming days. This joint operation by the Jharkhand Police and CRPF has boosted the morale of security forces in the area, and a sense of relief is being felt among the general public, he said. Notably, the recovery comes amid heightened security across Jharkhand as the CPI (Maoist) observe a Resistance Week from October 8 to 14, protesting the recent killings of several cadres in police encounters. Intelligence agencies had warned that Maoists might attempt to retaliate during this period.
Mock Drill Clip From Jharkhand Viral as Police Dispersing Crowd in UP, Bihar
This video shows a mock drill in Jharkhand from ahead of the Dussehra festivities in Bokaro.
Woman swept away in drain as heavy rain lashes parts of Jharkhand; IMD says more showers in store
RANCHI: A 50-year-old woman was swept away in an overflowing drain in Jharkhand's Dumka district as heavy rain lashed parts of the state, officials said on Thursday. The India Meteorological Department(IMD) has issued an orange alert for the districts of Garhwa, Palamu and Chatra, as several parts of the state are pounded by rain, officials said on Thursday. A yellow alert has also been issued for Latehar, Hazaribag, Bokaro, Koderma, Giridih, and Dhanbad till October 4, an official said on Thursday. The Dumka incident happened when the victim, identified as Savitri Devi, stepped out of her home at Gilanpada locality in Dumka town Wednesday night. While wading in knee-deep water, she slipped into a drain, about 50 meters away from her home, and swept away, said Officer-in-Charge of Town Police Station Jagarnath Dhan. She probably could not judge the distance between the drain and her home due to waterlogging, he said. Her body was recovered and sent for post-mortem examination. On Wednesday, heavy rain lashed several districts such as Koderma, Chatra, Hazaribag and Ranchi. The state capital and various other areas of the state continued to witness showers on Thursday, when the Dusshera festival will be celebrated. Light to moderate rainfall at many places with heavy rainfall at isolated places is likely on October 2. The state may witness light to moderate rainfall at most places and heavy to very heavy showers at isolated places tomorrow. Heavy rainfall is likely to occur at isolated places on October 4, said Abhishek Anand, the in-charge of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre. Apart from this, isolated thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds up to 40 km per hour are likely to occur across the state till October 6. A yellow alert has been issued for Lohardaga, Gumla, Simdega, Ranchi, Khunti, West Singhbhum, Bokaro, Seraikela-Kharsawan, East Singhbhum, Ramgarh, and Dhanbad till October 3, according to the bulletin issued by the IMD. The IMD said the temperature is expected to decrease by 3-5 degrees Celsius in the next three days.
Ranchi Diary | Vatican-themed puja pandal sparks row
A Vatican-inspired Durga Puja pandal in Ranchi has triggered controversy after the VHP and the BJP objected to its design, alleging that it hurt Hindu sentiments. The pandal, set up by RR Sporting Club, featured tall pillars, domes, and sculptures resembling European cathedrals. Inside, above the platform housing the Durga idol, framed portraits of Jesus, Mary, and other Christian figures were displayed. Visuals of the pandal went viral on social media, prompting criticism from Hindu organisations. Following the backlash, the organisers announced modifications to the structure. They removed crosses from statues and replaced Christian images with depictions of Hindu gods and goddesses. Jharkhand gears up to become an IT hub Jharkhand is on its way to becoming an IT hub as efforts are being made to facilitate top global tech companies, including Google, Wipro, and TCS, setting up offices in Ranchi. The state government has initiated preparations and started the process of identifying 100 acres of land for this purpose. It has also implemented the IT Policy 2025, which offers tax incentives and improved infrastructure to IT companies for investment. According to government sources, discussions are underway with Infosys and Tech Mahindra. The government aims to develop Ranchi into an IT hub similar to Bengaluru and Pune. Fine for driving a car without helmet The Bokaro RTO issued a Rs 1,000 fine to a car driver for not wearing a helmet. Anand Kumar Singh, a resident of Jhumri Tilaiya in Koderma, received a message link on his mobile phone from the Bokaro RTO on August 20. Upon opening the link, he found that a Rs 1,000 fine had been imposed on his vehicle number JH 09 BB 5161 (a car) for not wearing a helmet. It was found that the fine was issued due to a technical fault. Bokaro Traffic DSP Vidya Shankar attributed it to a mechanical error, adding that the concerned officials had been notified. The matter is expected to be resolved soon. Mukesh Ranjan Our correspondent in Jharkhand mukesh.r@newindianexpress.com
Elephant-calf rescued from 25-foot deep well in Jharkhand
RANCHI: An elephant and its calf, which had fallen into a 25-foot deep well while crossing farmland in Ramgarh on Thursday morning, were safely rescued by forest officials. After over two hours of effort, the pair were freed with the help of a JCB machine, allowing them to walk back into the jungle. It took us around two hours to rescue the elephant and its calf by creating a slope down to the bottom of the well with the help of a JCB machine. Finally, the elephant and its calf were rescued and led back into the jungle, said Ramgarh Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Nitish Kumar. The DFO added that the elephant and calf might have separated from a herd of 42 wild elephants roaming the region for the past few weeks. The herd has since moved to Bokaro after crossing Ramgarhs borders, he said. Now, efforts will be made to reunite this elephant and its calf with the herd, the DFO stated. Elephant-calf falls into well, rescue operation underway in Jharkhand Earlier in the morning, the elephant and its calf were spotted in the 25-foot deep well at Hesapoda village in Parsadih forest under Gola police station in Ramgarh. Upon receiving information about the incident, forest officials rushed to the site and began rescue operations. According to villagers, the well, approximately 25 feet deep, was dug under the MNREGA scheme on the land of Dinaram Manjhi. Dense bushes surrounding the well likely caused the elephants not to notice it and fall straight in. Both elephants survived, possibly due to the shallow water in the well. However, due to the depth, they were unable to escape on their own.
Elephant-calf falls into well, rescue operation underway in Jharkhand
RANCHI: An elephant and its calf fell into a 25-feet deep well while crossing farmland at Hesapoda village in Parsadih forest under Gola police station in Ramgarh on Thursday. After being informed about the incident, forest officials rushed to the spot, and a rescue operation was launched. According to forest officials, both the mother elephant and its calf are safe, and efforts are underway to rescue them. A rescue operation is being planned using a JCB machine and other equipment, said one of the forest officials. They have appealed to villagers to maintain a distance from the spot, avoid crowding, and cooperate with the forest officials during the rescue. Forest officers said the elephants fell into the well during the night. Villagers informed them on Thursday morning, and the rescue team was dispatched immediately. A herd of 42 wild elephants has been roaming the area for the past week. The herd has now moved towards the Bokaro forest range. We suspect the elephant and its calf were part of the herd and fell into the well while moving to Bokaro, said Ramgarh DFO. The well is in an open area without any protective barrier. Since the well is covered with bushes, it was not visible to the elephants. Villagers reported that the well, dug under the MNREGA scheme on the land of Dinaram Manjhi, is approximately 25 feet deep. Dense bushes around it may have caused the elephants to fall in without noticing it. Both elephants survived, possibly due to the shallow water in the well. However, because of the depth, they are unable to get out on their own. The Forest Department has appealed to villagers to maintain a safe distance, cooperate in the rescue efforts, and avoid crowding.
Rail Teka Dahar Chheka Movement: Kurmi community halts trains in Jharkhand demanding ST status
RANCHI: The Kurmi community on Saturday launched a statewide Rail Teka Dahar Chheka (Train and Road Blocked) Movement across Jharkhand to press its long-standing demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for them. The protest was announced under the banner of the Adivasi Kurmi community, which also has the support of the entire Kurmi Committee and some political parties like AJSU. Acting on a call by the Adivasi Kurmi Community, protesters, dressed in traditional attire, have taken to the railway tracks since morning, accompanied by drums and cymbals. Protesters sat on the tracks in Giridih, Chakradharpur, Jamtara, and Bokaro, stopping trains. In wake of the protests, Section 144 has already been imposed at four railway stations in Ranchi. The Kurmi community had plans to stop trains at 100 stations in Jharkhand, Bengal, and Odisha, including 40 in Jharkhand. Protesters have also taken to the tracks at stations like Muri, Tatisilwai, and Mesra, adjacent to the capital, Ranchi. To deal with the protesters, 500 RPF personnel have been deployed at the Muri station. Acting on a call by the Adivasi Kurmi Community, protesters gathered in large numbers at several railway stations early morning, squatting on the tracks and halting train operations. Similar blockades were seen in Bokaro, Ranchi, and Giridih, where protesters took control of smaller railway stations, in some places as early as 4.00 am. In wake of the protests, Section 144 has already been imposed at four railway stations in Ranchi. Despite barricading efforts by the police in Kurmi-dominated areas through Friday night, the protests went ahead largely unhindered. According to a bulletin issued by South Eastern Railway, the agitation was staged at Bhanjpur station of Kharagpur division from 5.02 am to 5.35 am, while protests still continue between Sini and Birbans in Chakradharpur division. Agitation in Dhanbad division of East Central Railway has also led to regulation of trains within SERs jurisdiction. Due to the ongoing protests, train services have been badly hit across Jharkhand, West Bengal, and adjoining regions. Railway officials said efforts are on to normalize services, but disruption is likely to continue as the agitation intensifies. Several trains were cancelled or rescheduled due to the agitation. Train No. 13504 HatiaBurdwan MEMU Express and Train No. 18036 HatiaKharagpur MEMU were cancelled. Train No. 13351 DhanbadAlappuzha Express, scheduled to depart at 11.35 am, will now leave Dhanbad at 6.35 pm. Train No. 18613 RanchiChopan Express will run via RanchiTori instead of its usual RanchiMuriBarkakana route. Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JKLM) chief and MLA Jairam Mahato has extended his support to the movement, stating that the agitation was also linked to issues such as recognition of the Kurmali language and protection of land rights. Notably, the Kurmi communitys push for ST status has intensified in recent years. The first major protest began in 2022 and continued for nine days.
Kurmis begin rail blockade in Jharkhand, defying prohibitory orders
RANCHI: Defying prohibitory orders, Kurmis began their rail blockade at various stations in Jharkhand on Saturday morning to press demand for a Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the community and inclusion of the Kurmali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, officials said. The protestors were seen sitting on tracks at Rai station in Ranchi, Parasnath in Giridih and Chandrpura in Bokaro district under the banner of Adivasi Kurmi Samaj (AKS), causing disruption in train services in various divisions of the South Eastern and East Central railways. Security personnel were trying to pacify the protestors and making efforts to clear the railway tracks, the officials said. Several political parties, including AJSU, extended their support to the demonstrations by the Kurmis. In view of the stir, the Ranchi administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of BNSS in a 300-metre radius of various stations falling in the district. The order is effective at Muri, Silli, Khalari and Tatisilwai from 8 pm on Friday to 8 am on September 21, according to an official statement. A similar order within a radius of 100 metres has been imposed at Tatanagar, Govindpur, Rakha Mines and Haldipokhar stations under Dhalbhum subdivision of East Singhbhum district. As per the orders, demonstrations, dharnas, effigy burning or gherao, carrying any sort of weapons, including sticks and bows and arrows, assembly of five or more persons with the intention to disturb peace and public address are prohibited. Adivasi Kurmi Samaj member and Kurmi Vikas Morcha central president Sheetal Ohdar said they were staging protests on railway tracks in a peaceful manner. DGP Anurag Gupta had instructed the police on Friday to increase vigilance, deploy additional forces with protective gear, install CCTVs and drones at sensitive stations, and coordinate with railway police to prevent stone-pelting and ensure passenger safety during the agitation.
RANCHI/JAMSHEDPUR: Kurmi community members will go ahead with their indefinite 'Rail Teka' (rail blockade) agitation on Saturday at different railway stations across Jharkhand in support of their demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status and inclusion of Kurmali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, an official of Adivasi Kurmi Samaj said on Friday. Adivasi Kurmi Samaj member and Kurmi Vikas Morcha central president Sheetal Ohdar told PTI that community members have been asked to stage protests on railway tracks in a peaceful manner without disrupting railway traffic, damaging public property and indulging in any sort of violence. We are aware of the Calcutta High Court directive and will ensure that protests on railway tracks are held in a peaceful manner, and under no circumstances will members damage railway property or indulge in violence. Members have been asked not to show resistance when security forces of the state or railway units try to remove them from tracks or take them under preventive custody, Ohdar added. The Calcutta High Court has declared the Kurmi community's plan for rail and road blockade on September 20 unconstitutional and illegal and directed the railways and the state government to take steps to maintain law and order and ensure public movement remains unhindered. Adivasi Kurmi Samaj has given a call for a rail and road blockade in the greater Chotanagpur area, spanning Jharkhand, West Bengal and Odisha. Ohdar said community members have been asked not to carry any traditional weapons during the agitation. Members have been asked not to carry any traditional weapons during the agitation. We will stage jhumur (a traditional dance) and raise slogans in support of our demand, he added. In Jharkhand, Kurmi leaders will sit on protest near railway tracks at Muri Station (near Ranchi), Barkakhana (in Ramgarh), Parasnath (Giridih), Chandrapura (Bokaro), Pradhan Ghanta (Dhanbad), Galudih (East Singhbhum), Sonua (West Singhbhum), Godda and Jamtara from Saturday morning. We do not want the public to be harassed during the agitation and are ready to withdraw our agitation if only Union Home Minister Amit Shah holds a meeting in support of our demand, Ohdar said. The movement for ST status by the Kurmi community gained momentum in 2022. After the COVID-19 pandemic, protests were held at several railway stations in Jharkhand and West Bengal. The movement began on September 20, 2022, and lasted for about nine days. In 2023, the protest again started on September 20 and continued for 7-8 days. No protests were held in 2024 due to the Lok Sabha and assembly elections. Meanwhile, several tribal outfits under Sanyukt Adivasi Sangathan have decided to stage a demonstration near the Raj Bhawan on Saturday in protest against Kurmi community's demand for inclusion in ST category. Sangathan spokesperson Niranjana Toppo claimed that the Kurmi demand for ST status is illegal and the agitation will force railways to incur huge losses. They also announced that they would submit a memorandum to Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar addressed to the President, Droupadi Murmu, against the Kurmi community's agitation. DGP Anurag Gupta had instructed police on Friday to increase vigilance, deploy additional forces with protective gear, install CCTV and drones at sensitive stations, and coordinate with railway police to prevent stone-pelting and ensure passenger safety during the agitation. Meanwhile, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of BNSS have been promulgated around four railway stations, including Tatanagar, from Friday in view of the agitation. The order will be effective in a 100-meter radius of Tatanagar, Govindpur, Rakha Mines and Haldipokhar stations under Dhalbhum subdivision of the district, Dhalbhum SDO Chandrajeet Singh said in a statement. The SDO stated that demonstration, dharna, effigy burning or gherao, carrying any sort of weapons, including sticks and bows and arrows, assembly of five or more persons with the intention to disturb peace, has been prohibited. No public address system will be allowed in the prohibited areas without prior permission, he said, adding that the order will be in force till the end of the agitation.
Fight against Maoists in Jharkhand enters last leg
RANCHI: Security forces offensives have reduced the number of Maoists on the wanted list to 49 in Jharkhand, police said as the Centre has set March 2026 deadline to eliminate the left-wing extremists in the country. According to police data, 28 Maoists, including 11 top leaders carrying a total bounty of Rs 3.15 crore, were killed in Latehar, Chaibasa, Bokaro, Hazaribagh, Palamu, and Gumla districts from January to September 15 this year. The wanted Maoists still operating in Jharkhand include three top leaders Misir Besra, Asim Mandal and Anal Da with a bounty of Rs 1 crore on their heads, and Anuj alias Sahadev, Brajesh Ganjhu, Lalchand Hembrom and Ajay Mahto with Rs 25 lakh reward on each. Some top Maoists killed incounters include Arvind Yadav alias Ashok, Special Area Committee member (Maoist), Saheb Ram Manjhi alias Rahul, Zonal Committee member (Maoist), Vinay Ganjhu alias Sanju Ganjhu, Zonal Committee member (Maoist), Pappu Lohara alias Suryadev Lohara, Zonal Committee member (JJMP), Manish Yadav alias Manish ji, Special Zonal Committee member (Maoist) and Sudesh Ganjhu alias Prabhat ji. According to official data, 18 Maoists were killed in 2020, eight in 2021, twelve in 2022, fourteen in 2023, and 11 in 2024. Also 20 security personnel were killed during these years.
Ranchi Diary | No more closed vehicles at Betla National Park
A notice issued by Betla National Park management says that tourists will now be able to view wildlife only in open vehicles, as closed vehicles have been completely banned inside the park. The order will take effect when the park reopens to tourists after the monsoon season. Tourists will need to rent open vehicles to navigate the park. As news of the impending deadline spread, the villages adjoining the park witnessed a flurry of activity, as the residents who own most of the taxis began modifying their vehicles. Wife of top Maoist Sahdeo a daily wager The wife of Maoist Sahdeo Soren, who carried a bounty of `1 crore on his head and was killed in an encounter with security forces, works as a daily wage labourer in her village to make ends meet. Parvati Devi reveals that her husband left home 15 years ago and never returned. She realised he had joined the Maoists only when police started coming to the house searching for him, she said. She thanks the villagers for their support and is proud that she has been able to educate both her sons. She hopes they will become responsible citizens and erase the stigma associated with their fathers connections. Her elder son is in Class 12, and the younger one is in Class 8. Five biogas plants to come up in Jharkhand To promote energy production from organic waste in rural areas, five new biogas plants are set to be established in Bokaro, Ramgarh, Dumka, Jamtara, and Saraikela-Kharsawan, Jharkhand. These plants will generate 135 cubic meters of gas daily, benefiting local communities with cleaner energy. Additionally, a completed 25-cubic-metre plant in Bandgaon will serve 20 households. These biogas plants are being installed under the GOVARDHAN (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Wealth) scheme launched by the central government. With the installation of these five new biogas plants, the number of biogas plants in Jharkhand will increase to 47. Mukesh Ranjan Our correspondent in Jharkhand mukesh.r@newindianexpress.com
Naxalism completely eradicated from Jharkhand's Bokaro region, says Home Minister Amit Shah
RANCHI: Elated with the achievement of security forces in Jharkhands Hazaribagh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that Naxalism has been completely eradicated from the Bokaro region in northern Jharkhand. The entire country will be free from the Naxal problem, he said. In an X post, Shah expressed, Today, in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, a joint team of the CRPF's Cobra Battalion and the state police has achieved a major success in an anti-Naxal operation. In this operation, the notorious Naxal commander with a Rs 1 crore bounty, Central Committee Member of CPI(Maoist) Sahdev Soren alias Parvesh, has been eliminated. Additionally, two others wanted Naxals, Raghunath Hembram alias Chanchal and Birsen Ganjhu alias Ramkhelawan, have also been gunned down by the security forces. CRPF 1 , , - Amit Shah (@AmitShah) September 15, 2025 Earlier on Sunday, Jharkhand police had also gunned down a wanted Maoist Mukhdeo Yadav, a member of the banned Maoist organisation, Tritiya Sammelan Prastuti Committee (TSPC), during an encounter. The fierce encounter took place between security forces and TSPC in the Manatu jungles of Palamu, lasted for several hours. Notably, as Police action against Maoists and organised criminals have been intensified in Jharkhand, on average three encounters have taken place every month during the last eight months in the state. A total of 30 Maoists and three notorious criminals have been killed in police encounters by the security forces across Jharkhand in different districts. Meanwhile, five security personnel have also been martyred during those encounters. 'Modi government won't rest until Naxals are surrendered, caught or eliminated': Amit Shah
Jharkhand to set up 2,100-bed super-speciality kidney hospital, six new medical colleges
RANCHI: Jharkhand Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari on Tuesday announced an ambitious plan to establish a 2,100-bed super-speciality kidney hospital in the state, alongside six new medical colleges. He said the projects, along with other reforms, would transform Jharkhands medical infrastructure within the next two years. Ansari was speaking at a function held at the Institute of Public Health in Namkum, where 91 Community Health Officers (CHOs) were given appointment letters. Sharing his recent experience during a visit to Bokaro, the minister said people had expressed their difficulties due to the absence of MRI and CT scan machines in hospitals. I was deeply affected by their plight. I have decided that these facilities will be made mandatory in every district hospital, he announced. People told me how much financial and mental pain they have to suffer due to the absence of MRI and CT scan machines in hospitals. This touched my heart. I have decided that these facilities will be made mandatory in every district hospital, said Ansari. Highlighting the states upcoming projects, Dr Ansari said the proposed kidney hospital would end the need for patients to travel outside Jharkhand for transplants and advanced kidney treatments. He also reaffirmed that the long-awaited Medico City and six medical colleges would be completed on schedule. Some strict decisions are necessary to fix the system. There will be criticism, but our promises will soon be visible on the ground, he remarked. Ansari further added that since taking charge, work was being done to strengthen the health system. The improvements that could not be made in the last 25 years are now being completed at a fast pace, he said. Health Department Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar Singh noted that Jharkhand has surpassed national averages in several health parameters despite limited resources.
Delhi Police, Jharkhand Anti-Terrorism Squad Arrest Two Suspected ISIS Operatives
The prime accused, identified as Bokaro native Ashar Danish, was arrested from Ranchi. Another suspect, Aftab, was apprehended from Delhi during the coordinated action.
Delhi Police, Jharkhand ATS Nab 2 Suspected ISIS Operatives
New Delhi, Sep 10: In a joint operation, Delhi Polices Special Cell, Jharkhand Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and Ranchi police have arrested two suspected ISIS operatives, an official said on Wednesday. The prime accused, identified as Bokaro native Ashar Danish, was arrested from Ranchi, he said. He was wanted in a case registered by the Delhi Police Special Cell related to an ISIS-linked module. Another suspect, Aftab, was apprehended from Delhi during coordinated action carried out simultaneously by the [] The post Delhi Police, Jharkhand ATS Nab 2 Suspected ISIS Operatives appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Jharkhand: Suspected ISIS terrorist arrested from Ranchi lodge by the joint security team
RANCHI: A joint team comprising Ranchi Police, the Delhi Police Special Cell, and the Jharkhand Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested a suspected terrorist believed to be associated with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The arrest was made at Tabarak Lodge, located in Islamnagar under the jurisdiction of the Lower Bazaar police station in Ranchi. The suspect, identified as Ashar Danish, is reportedly linked to ISIS. During the raid, the joint team also seized several electronic devices from the premises. According to police sources, the Delhi Police Special Cell had been searching for Danish for a considerable period in connection with an old case registered against him in Delhi. Following continuous surveillance and intelligence gathering, he was finally apprehended in Ranchi. After receiving a tip-off about the suspected ISIS terrorist, a joint team of Ranchi Police, Delhi Police Special Cell, and Jharkhand ATS conducted a raid at the lodge and arrested Ashar Danish, said a police source. Danish was staying in a room at Tabarak Lodge in Islamnagar, the source added. It has been confirmed that Danish is originally from Petarwar Block in the Bokaro district. During the operation, the ATS and the Delhi Police Special Cell seized multiple electronic devices, which are now being analysed. Additionally, the joint team carried out a raid in Palamu district, detaining one individual who is currently being interrogated by security agencies. Authorities are investigating whether this person has any links to Ashar Danishs alleged network. Interrogation of Danish is ongoing and is expected to uncover critical information about ISISs activities and connections within the region. Security agencies are particularly focused on identifying individuals who were in contact with him and understanding the extent of his operations. Officials believe that the investigation may reveal significant insights into ISISs presence and potential plans in India. Notably, several suspects have already been arrested from different districts in Jharkhand in connection with ISIS-related cases. This latest arrest has once again heightened alertness among security agencies across the region.
'Will blow you up': Jharkhand health minister receives death threat again
RANCHI: Jharkhand Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari once again received a death threat through a phone call from an unknown number late Sunday night. The caller initially used abusive language and warned that the minister would be blown up very soon. You just wait We will blow you up very soon, the caller said. The minister informed the police immediately, following which security agencies were put on alert and efforts were made to further strengthen his security. The investigation has also been intensified as the police have started tracking the phone number to identify the caller. According to sources, the threat call came on the minister's mobile at around 11:56 pm on Sunday, while he was staying at Bokaro Circuit House. He had gone there to attend an official programme. Ansari's office later confirmed the incident and said that he is not afraid of any threat, adding that the law will take its course and the culprit will soon be in police custody. Senior administrative and police officials have been informed about the entire incident, they said. Notably, this is not the first time Ansari has received such threats. A few days ago, a youth from Giridih released a video on social media threatening to blow up Ansari and Urban Development Minister Sudivya Kumar with a bomb. In the video, which went viral on social media, the youth was seen threatening to blow up Sudivya and Ansari within 24 hours. The youth, identifying himself as Ankit Kumar Mishra, a resident of Giridih, claimed to be a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The youth said that he had some personal matter with these ministers, but if they apologised, he would not do anything. Later, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by Giridih Police arrested Mishra from Patna in Bihar. During interrogation, the police found that he had no connection with any organised criminal gang, but he had been to jail for petty crimes on several occasions.
Jharkhand braces for heavy rainfall over next three days
RANCHI: In yet another weather alert issued by the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, heavy to very heavy rainfall has been predicted in several parts of Jharkhand over the next three days, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds. According to the Head of the Meteorological Centre in Ranchi, Abhishek Anand, It will continue to rain in Jharkhand till 23, 24 and 25 August; some districts will receive heavy to very heavy rain, while some districts will receive heavy rain. During this time, an alert has also been issued for thunderstorms and lightning along with rain. According to the forecast, north-western parts of the state are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall on 23 August. Isolated heavy showers are also expected over south-western, north-eastern and adjoining central regions, along with thunderstorms and gusty winds. On 24 August, heavy rainfall may occur at isolated places over southern, central and north-eastern parts of the state. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are likely in several areas. Similarly, on 25 August, western and adjoining central parts of Jharkhand may experience heavy rainfall at isolated places, while thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are expected across the state. According to the Meteorological Department, the monsoon trough is currently passing through Jaisalmer, Kota, Datia, Sidhi, Ranchi, Bankura, Digha and extending southeastwards into the east-central Bay of Bengal, up to 1.5 km above mean sea level. An upper air cyclonic circulation persists over northwest Madhya Pradesh and adjoining regions, extending up to 7.6 km above mean sea level, it said. Another circulation lies over north Odisha and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal at around 5.8 km above mean sea level. The Met office has advised citizens to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy downpours and take precautions against lightning strikes and gusty winds. There is a possibility of heavy rainfall at some places in Palamu, Garhwa, Chatra, Latehar, Ranchi, Bokaro, Gumla, Hazaribagh, Khunti, Ramgarh, Lohardaga, Koderma, Dhanbad, Giridih and Simdega districts on 24 August. IMD has issued a yellow alert for these districts. Meanwhile, in a tragic incident on Thursday, three innocent girls were killed in a lightning strike while returning from school near Ranchi. According to locals, Pari Oraon of Class 1 in Primary School Hondpidi and Anjalika Kujur of Class 3, along with Basmati Oraon of Class 6, were going home during which a lightning strike took place killing all the three on the spot. Jharkhand has so far received 25% excess rain than normal.
Derailed wagons collide with another train in Jharkhand; no casualties reported
RANCHI: A goods train heading towards Purulia on the down line derailed near Pitaki gate, about 200 meters away from the station, and fell away over the up line. Another goods train, coming on the up line, collided with it; the collision was so intense that a total of 21 wagons derailed, out of which two fell on the roadside. According to local sources, the accident took place at 4:15 am near pole number 375/22 near Chandil railway station in Jharkhand on Saturday morning. Initial reports suggest that the crash was caused by a technical fault and a signal failure. As soon as the information about the accident reached the railway officials, they rushed to the spot and started investigating the matter. Work is going on war footing to restore the railway track. Railway administration said that efforts are being made to restore the operation as soon as possible. The intensity of the collision could be gauged from the fact that the wheels of the train broke and fell far away, and the railway tracks were damaged for about 200 meters in the accident. Due to the accident, train services have been disrupted on ChandilTatanagar, ChandilMuri, and ChandilPuruliaBokaro routes. Many passengers remain stranded at various stations, while the route of some trains has been changed. Alternative transport is being arranged for the passengers who are affected. Due to the accident, many trains leaving from Tatanagar railway station have been cancelled. These include important trains like Tata-Patna Vande Bharat Express, Tata-Buxar Superfast Express, and Tata-Dhanbad Swarnarekha Express. Apart from this, the routes of some long-distance trains like Purushottam Express and Anand Vihar Express have also been changed.
Derailed wagons collide with another train in Jharkhand
RANCHI: A goods train heading towards Purulia on the down line derailed near Pitaki gate, about 200 meters away from the station, and fell away over the up line. Another goods train, coming on the up line, collided with it; the collision was so intense that a total of 21 wagons derailed, out of which two fell on the roadside. According to local sources, the accident took place at 4:15 am near pole number 375/22 near Chandil railway station in Jharkhand on Saturday morning. Initial reports suggest that the crash was caused by a technical fault and a signal failure. Some crew members have suffered minor injuries and been admitted to the nearest hospital. As soon as the information about the accident reached the railway officials, they rushed to the spot and started investigating the matter. Work is going on war footing to restore the railway track. Railway administration said that efforts are being made to restore the operation as soon as possible. The intensity of the collision could be gauged from the fact that the wheels of the train broke and fell far away, and the railway tracks were damaged for about 200 meters in the accident. Due to the accident, train services have been disrupted on ChandilTatanagar, ChandilMuri, and ChandilPuruliaBokaro routes. Many passengers remain stranded at various stations, while the route of some trains has been changed. Alternative transport is being arranged for the passengers who are affected. Due to the accident, many trains leaving from Tatanagar railway station have been cancelled. These include important trains like Tata-Patna Vande Bharat Express, Tata-Buxar Superfast Express, and Tata-Dhanbad Swarnarekha Express. Apart from this, the routes of some long-distance trains like Purushottam Express and Anand Vihar Express have also been changed.
Shibu Sorens last rites today in Nemra Village; Rahul Gandhi, Kharge to attend
New Delhi: The last rites of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) founder and former Chief Minister Shibu Soren will be performed on Tuesday at 2 p.m. in his native village, Nemra, near Barka Nala in Bokaro district. The 81-year-old tribal leader and veteran politician breathed his last on Monday morning at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
The making of a legend: Shibu Soren's evolution from Shivcharan to Guruji
RANCHI: The founder patron of JMM, who dominated Jharkhand politics for over four decades, passed away during treatment at a hospital in New Delhi at the age of 81 on Monday. Though he became Chief Minister of Jharkhand thrice, his early life remained quite challenging and full of struggle. Born on January 11, 1944, at Nemra village under Gola Block of Ramgarh, Shibu Soren was fondly called Shivlal in his childhood, but he was enrolled in the primary school as Shivcharan Manjhi. After receiving his primary education at the village school, he moved to a state-sponsored high school in Gola block, where he continued his studies while staying in a tribal hostel. Despite belonging to the tribal community, his father, Sobaran Manjhi, was highly educated and worked as a teacher. Sobaran was involved in various activities for the upliftment of his community and raised his voice against the exploitation by moneylenders. As Sobaran gradually became a prominent voice among the tribals and continuously opposed the oppression by mahajans, he was allegedly killed by them on November 27, 1957. This incident became a turning point in the life of Shibu Soren, who was just 13 years old at the time. Shaken by his fathers murder, Shibu Soren left his studies and began opposing the moneylenders. This was no easy task, as many villagers were deeply indebted. He was disturbed to see tribal lands being seized over unpaid debts, with villagers tricked into giving thumb impressions on blank papers under the influence of alcohol. These incidents inspired Shibu Soren to launch a movement against the moneylenders. As he raised his voice, more people started joining him. At the same time, he began spreading awareness against the consumption of alcohol and hadia (rice beer). His social reform movement and resistance to the moneylenders gained traction across Gola and neighbouring areas like Bokaro and Dhanbad. Between 1972 and 1976, the movement gained momentum. He succeeded in reclaiming tribal land taken by moneylenders. His assertive approach won him admiration within the tribal community. Eventually, Soren became a widely popular figure at his call, thousands would gather with bows and arrows to harvest crops from seized lands. He also built an ashram at Pokhariya under Tundi block of Dhanbad, known as Shibu Ashram. People began calling him Guruji out of love and respect. However, his political identity took root in Santhal Pargana, where he earned the title Dishom Guru or Guru of the nation. In 1972, Soren and his colleagues decided to form a political party. This led to the formation of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Shibu Soren first contested elections in 1977 but faced defeat. Undeterred, he contested again in 1980 and began his political ascent. He went on to serve as Member of Parliament from Dumka Lok Sabha seat seven times. He played a pivotal role in the campaign for a separate Jharkhand state. Devoting his entire political career to the cause, he led a sustained movement that eventually led to the creation of Jharkhand from Bihar in 2000. Tribal titan Shibu Soren: A legacy of power, struggles and controversies
