Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Centre over the ongoing fuel crisis, rising inflation, the alleged NEET paper leak controversy, and recent remarks by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on fuel conservation and VIP convoys.
The Chief Minister adopted a sarcastic tone while criticising the Union government’s handling of essential issues affecting ordinary citizens. Referring to the Prime Minister, Soren remarked, “Now he is the king of the country; let us see what all he makes the nation do.”
Commenting on the shortage of petrol, diesel and cooking gas reported from several parts of the country, Soren said the situation was not new and claimed that the crisis had persisted for years.
“What is being witnessed outside petrol pumps today has existed since 2014,” he said, in an apparent reference to the BJP-led government at the Centre.
The Jharkhand CM also mocked the Prime Minister’s recent appeal urging citizens and officials to reduce fuel consumption and cut down on VIP convoys. Soren said since Modi occupied the “steering seat of the country,” the nation would ultimately function according to his wishes.
Opposition parties across the country have intensified criticism of the BJP-led government over issues linked to price rise and public hardship.
The Chief Minister also expressed concern over the alleged NEET paper leak controversy, saying such incidents raise serious questions about the country’s education system and examination processes.
Also read: Education minister directs foolproof conduct of NEET re-exam
“Everything reflects the same condition of affairs. After the NEET paper leak, a meritorious student lost his life—who will worry about that?” Soren asked, while questioning the Centre’s role in ensuring transparency and safeguarding students’ futures.
Responding to a question regarding the long-pending demand for a separate Sarna religion code in the Census, Soren defended it strongly. He told journalists that those who already have a separate category in census forms may not understand its importance.
“The day your column is removed, you will realise why our demand is important,” he said. The Jharkhand government has repeatedly demanded a separate Sarna religion code for the tribal community, arguing that it is essential for protecting indigenous identity and cultural recognition.
Meaanwhile, Soren’s remarks have triggered fresh political debate, with the possibility of intensified confrontation between the BJP and opposition parties over fuel shortages, inflation, education reforms and tribal identity issues in the coming days.
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