AICC General Secretary and Jharkhand in-charge, Ghulam Ahmed Mir, stirred controversy on Thursday during an election rally in Chandrapura, Bermo constituency, with a promise to provide subsidized gas cylinders at ₹450 to all residents of the state, including what he described as “infiltrators.”
During the rally, Mir said, “If our government is formed, we will provide gas cylinders at ₹450 from December 1 to everyone, whether they are Hindu, Muslim, or even infiltrators. This benefit will be for all citizens of Jharkhand without any discrimination.” His statement, made during the intense election campaign, has faced strong criticism from opposition parties, especially the BJP.
BJP Hits Back: Allegations of “Appeasement Politics”
The BJP has condemned Mir’s statement, labeling it as “anti-national” and accusing the Congress of indulging in appeasement and vote-bank politics.
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, while campaigning in Jharkhand, said, “Congress leader Ghulam Ahmed Mir has promised gas cylinders at ₹450 even for infiltrators. This shows how the Congress-JMM-RJD alliance protects infiltrators.” He also claimed that millions of infiltrators have entered Jharkhand under the current government and have been given voter and ration cards.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, speaking at a rally in Bokaro, criticized Congress’s promise, saying, “They plan to give gas cylinders to Hindus, Muslims, and even infiltrators. The BJP will not let infiltrators take away the rights of tribals. Our priority is to protect the interests of native citizens.”
Polarized Reactions Ahead of the Second Phase of Voting
Mir’s remarks have sparked debates among political and social circles in Jharkhand. While Congress leaders maintain that the statement was intended to emphasize inclusivity and universal access to resources, BJP leaders have framed it as evidence of Congress’s alleged focus on minority appeasement.
Jharkhand is in the midst of a multi-phase election, with the second round of voting set for November 20. The first phase of voting took place on November 13, and results will be announced on November 23.
As the political temperature rises, this statement is likely to remain a focal point of discourse in the state’s high-stakes election. Whether this controversy will sway voter sentiments remains to be seen.
