At its 13th general convention held in Ranchi’s Khelgaon complex, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) strongly opposed the recently implemented Waqf Amendment Act and reiterated its long-standing demand for a nationwide caste census.
Senior party MLA and former Deputy Chief Minister Stephen Marandi presented a comprehensive political proposal that addressed several key issues concerning social justice, minority rights, and employment policy. Marandi emphasised that JMM supports the conduct of a caste-based census not only within Jharkhand but across the entire country, viewing it as essential for equitable policy-making.
The proposal also included a demand for granting 27 per cent reservation to Other Backward Classes (OBCs), reflecting the party's commitment to affirmative action.
Marandi further stated that JMM is in favour of implementing the employment policy with 1932 as the cut-off year for determining local status, which has been a point of contention and advocacy in the state.
In its proposal, the party also registered opposition to the present framework of delimitation, calling for a more inclusive and representative process. Regarding the Waqf Amendment Act, Marandi clarified that the party considers the amendment a direct infringement on the rights of minorities and a violation of the secular spirit enshrined in the Constitution.
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According to him, the amendment undermines the constitutional guarantee that allows all religious communities in India to function autonomously in their spiritual and institutional affairs.
The proposal also included a demand for 75 per cent reservation for local youth in private sector jobs, aiming to ensure better employment opportunities for residents of the state.
Additionally, the party raised the long-pending issue of officially recognising the Sarna Religion Code in Parliament, a demand significant to tribal communities who follow indigenous faiths.
The convention was attended by JMM president Shibu Soren, executive president Hemant Soren, and all senior leaders of the ruling party. A 108-page organisational report was presented during the convention, which will continue until April 15.
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