JD(U) min slams Jharkhand’s domicile policy based on 1932 land records

RANCHI: Bihar minister and Janata Dal (U) in charge for Jharkhand, Ashok Choudhary, on Tuesday criticized the Hemant Soren government’s domicile policy based on 1932 land records, saying the bill would not stand any legal scrutiny. The principal opposition in the state, BJP, has also criticised the bill, saying it would lead to litigations.
Speaking to media persons at the state guest house here, Choudhary said it is highly unlikely that the Union government will approve the policy.
The Jharkhand assembly passed the bill on November 11 2022 in which the 1932 land records are the basis for defining local residents of the state. The state wants the bill sent to the Centre for its approval to include it in Schedule 9 of the Constitution. Currently, the bill is with the governor, who is yet to give his approval and sent it to the Centre.
On his party plans for Jharkhand, Choudhary said Jharkhand is a fertile land for Janata Dal (U) and the party will build its organisation and leadership with the objective of fighting the state assembly and parliamentary elections.
“At present, the party’s position is not satisfactory but the situation would change in the next six months. We will hold division and district-wise rallies. We will also bring back leaders who have become alienated from the party,” he said. Janata Dal (U) state president and MP Khiru Mahto was also present during Choudhary’s press conference.