Jharkhand News: CM Hemant Soren Criticizes PM and Election Commission Over Leave Restrictions in Jharkhand

Ranchi, November 01, 2024: In a recent statement, Jharkhand’s Chief Minister Hemant Soren raised concerns over the Election Commission’s handling of leave policies ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s planned visit. The CM expressed frustration that critical local festivals – Diwali, Bhai Dooj, Sohrai, Gohal Puja, Bandna Parv, Chitragupt Puja and the upcoming Chhath Mahapar are being overlooked in administrative leave allotments for government workers, due to the scheduling of the PM’s visit and election-related duties.

CM Hemant Soren’s Local Holiday Appeal

Highlighting the cultural significance of Jharkhand’s local festivals, CM Hemant Soren used social media to emphasize how these holidays are deeply embedded in the community’s traditions and routines. He pointed out that people across the state, especially government employees and police personnel, traditionally take time off to celebrate these events with their families. With Chhath Mahaparv scheduled from November 4 to 8 – a time when many people return to their hometowns, Hemant Soren voiced his concern that restrictions on leave could disrupt the observance of these festivities for many Jharkhand residents.

In his statement, Hemant Soren directly appealed to the Election Commission to ensure that government employees are not deprived of their right to celebrate these important events. “The Election Commission should issue clear directives to district officials to approve holiday requests and avoid unnecessary cancellations,” he said. The CM’s message also requested the temporary release of buses and other vehicles, which have reportedly been allocated for election tasks, to ease travel during Chhath Mahaparv.

Criticism of Leave Restrictions During Prime Minister’s Jharkhand Visit

CM Hemant Soren’s remarks came as preparations were underway for Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Jharkhand, which is intended to coincide with election events. Hemant Soren’s criticism extended beyond just leave restrictions, he raised questions about the timing and approach of the PM’s visit, implying that the visit may be overshadowing local needs. “This season holds unique cultural importance in Jharkhand,” Hemant Soren stated, urging that national events consider regional traditions and allow local holidays to proceed without disruption.

While the PM’s visit remains a key event, Hemant Soren’s concerns reflect his broader efforts to prioritize the values and customs of Jharkhand’s citizens. He cautioned that a continued disregard for these customs could foster discontent among the public, especially among government and law enforcement personnel, many of whom play crucial roles in the state’s governance and community functions.

Hemant Soren’s Appeal to the Election Commission and Governance Priorities

Hemant Soren’s message to the Election Commission also underscored his broader governance goals for Jharkhand. By ensuring the right to observe cultural festivals, the CM emphasized the importance of maintaining local traditions amidst growing demands on state resources. He reiterated that his administration has consistently aimed to uphold Jharkhand’s heritage and fulfill promises made to its citizens, despite the challenges posed by election activities and high-profile events such as the PM’s visit.

“As a state, we’ve faced significant challenges, but I remain committed to Jharkhand’s development and cultural preservation,” Hemant Soren stated. His message included a call to all state-level authorities to uphold holiday requests during this festival season as part of their responsibility to the people of Jharkhand.

Without explicitly concluding, Hemant Soren’s statements reflect a clear appeal for regional considerations in national scheduling and underscore his dedication to Jharkhand’s community values during the festival period.