Jharkhand Polls: Why Can’t Kalpana Soren Contest From Any ST Seat, Asks Himanta Biswa Sarma

Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, addressed a question regarding a letter from Hemant Soren, the Chief Minister of Jharkhand. Soren's letter requested scheduled tribe (ST) status for the Jharkhandi tea tribes in Assam. Sarma mentioned he would respond in writing but noted that Soren already knows the answer.

"I will reply to the letter of Hemant Soren ji in writing. But Hemant Soren already knows the answer to his question. Ask him why Kalpana Soren (his wife) can't contest from any ST assembly seat in Jharkhand? The answer lies in his family. Still, since he has asked for it, I will give it in writing," Sarma stated while speaking to reporters in Ranchi.

Kalpana Soren's Electoral Challenge

Kalpana Soren, who hails from a scheduled tribe community in Odisha, faces electoral challenges in Jharkhand. Due to state laws, outsiders cannot claim reservation under scheduled categories. Consequently, she is unable to contest from any of the 28 seats reserved for STs in Jharkhand's 81-member assembly. Currently, she represents Gandey, an unreserved constituency.

Sarma's comments came as a reaction to Hemant Soren's letter sent earlier this week. The letter highlighted concerns about the condition of approximately 70 lakh members of the Jharkhandi tea-tribe community residing in Assam. These individuals are presently classified as other backward classes (OBC) within the state.

Concerns About Tea Tribe Community

In his communication, Hemant Soren expressed worry over the marginalisation of the tea-tribe community despite their significant economic contributions to Assam. He urged for their recognition as a scheduled tribe to address their socio-economic challenges and improve their living conditions.

The issue has sparked discussions about tribal status and reservations across states. It highlights complexities faced by communities migrating between regions with differing reservation policies. As Sarma prepares his written response, it remains uncertain how this matter will unfold politically and socially.

This exchange between two state leaders underscores ongoing debates about tribal identity and rights within India's diverse landscape. The outcome could influence future policies regarding inter-state migration and reservation benefits for marginalised groups.