Saraikela News: Tribals Oppose Kurmi Agitation, Warn of Economic Blockade in Kolhan

Tribal Protest Against Kurmi Community’s Demands in Jharkhand

Saraikela-Kharsawan, September 25, 2025: Saraikela-Kharsawan district witnessed massive protests on Thursday as thousands of members from Jharkhand’s tribal communities rallied against the ongoing Kurmi agitation. The Kurmi community has been demanding Scheduled Tribe (ST) status and the inclusion of the Kurmali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

Carrying traditional weapons and symbols of identity, protesters marched to the district headquarters and submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner. They warned that granting ST status to Kurmis could create unrest similar to the situation in Manipur.

Tribal Leaders Reject Kurmi Community’s Claim to ST Status

Tribal leaders in Saraikela condemned the Kurmi strategy, calling it unconstitutional and misleading. They alleged that the Kurmi community was misinterpreting constitutional provisions to declare themselves as tribals.

The leaders pointed out that the Kurmi agitation, including the “Rail Roko – Dher Cheka” movement, has caused significant revenue losses to the government and inconvenienced railway passengers across Jharkhand.

Threat of Economic Blockade in Kolhan Region

During the protest, tribal representatives issued a stern warning that their next step would be an economic blockade in the Kolhan region if the government failed to take firm action. They indicated that mineral transportation from Kolhan could be halted as part of the protest strategy.

Leaders emphasized that no compromise would be made on the issue of tribal identity. They stated that the Kurmi community would not be allowed to attain tribal status under any circumstances.

Fear of Manipur-Like Situation in Jharkhand

The protesters cautioned both the state and central governments to treat the matter with urgency. According to them, ignoring the issue could escalate tensions and create a law-and-order crisis in Jharkhand, drawing parallels to the violence that erupted in Manipur.

The rally in Saraikela highlighted growing tribal unity in Kolhan, with a collective stance to oppose the Kurmi movement and protect existing constitutional safeguards for Scheduled Tribes in the state.