What is the History of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha?

The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) is a prominent political party in India, known for championing the rights and aspirations of the tribal population in the state of Jharkhand. Founded with a vision to fight for the socio-economic and political rights of the indigenous people, the JMM has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s political landscape.

Early Roots and Formation

The genesis of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha dates back to the early 1970s when the demand for a separate state for the Adivasi (tribal) communities of the region started to gain momentum. The region known as Jharkhand, which now comprises the state of Jharkhand and some areas of neighboring states, had a significant tribal population with distinct cultural, social, and economic identities.

In 1972, a group of tribal leaders and activists, including Binod Bihari Mahato, Shibu Soren, and A.K. Roy, came together to form the Jharkhand Coordination Committee (JCC). The JCC became the precursor to the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, with its primary goal being the creation of a separate state for the Adivasis to safeguard their unique identity and protect their rights, which they felt were often marginalized under the governance of Bihar.

Struggles and Movements

The JCC spearheaded numerous movements and agitations to voice the demands for a separate state. They argued that the tribal communities were facing economic exploitation, social discrimination, and a lack of political representation in the larger state of Bihar. Their agitations included protests, rallies, and public awareness campaigns to garner support for their cause.

One of the most significant and tumultuous movements was the “Bihar Jharkhand Movement” that gained momentum in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The movement witnessed widespread protests, strikes, and civil disobedience, bringing the issue of statehood to the national forefront. However, the struggle also witnessed clashes with law enforcement, resulting in unfortunate incidents and loss of lives.

Recognition and Evolution

The relentless efforts of the JCC eventually bore fruit when on November 15, 2000, the state of Jharkhand was carved out of Bihar, becoming India’s 28th state. This historic achievement was a testament to the determination and resilience of the JCC, which had now transformed into the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha.

After the formation of the state, the JMM transitioned from being solely focused on statehood to addressing various socio-economic issues faced by the tribal population. The party participated in the electoral process and secured representation in the state legislative assembly as well as the Indian Parliament.

Over the years, the JMM has been an integral part of various coalition governments in the state and at the national level. It has also been part of alliances with other political parties, depending on the political climate and prevailing ideologies. The JMM has consistently advocated for the welfare of the marginalized communities, emphasizing issues related to land rights, forest rights, education, and healthcare.

The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha has come a long way since its inception as the Jharkhand Coordination Committee in the 1970s. From being a vanguard of the movement for a separate state, the party has evolved into a key player in Jharkhand’s politics, tirelessly working towards the upliftment of the tribal communities and safeguarding their rights. As Jharkhand continues to progress, the JMM’s commitment to the welfare of the people it represents remains at the forefront of its agenda.