Jharkhand's AJSU expanding base to contest 2019 polls

Unhappy with the functioning of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) has started expanding its base with an aim to contesting the 2019 state assembly elections independently.

Addressing party workers here, AJSU President Sudesh Mahto said: "The present BJP-led government is working against the welfare of the people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised that tribal lands will be safe."

"Every party expands its base," he added.

The party, during its three-day annual convention here which ended on Sunday, passed 29 resolutions including banning of liquor across Jharkhand.

The AJSU first voiced its opinion against the BJP government led by Chief Minister Raghubar Das after the Domicile Policy was announced last April. It stipulates that those who have lived in Jharkhand since the last 30 years would be considered local residents of the state.

However, the party's stand became clearer after the state government brought an ordinance last July to amend two land acts -- Chotanapur Tenancy Act and Santhal Pargana Act.

The AJSU, in response, started their agitation including a post card campaign.

Around five lakh post cards, signed by the people opposing the Domicile Policy and amendment in the two land acts, were posted to the Chief Minister's official residence.

The AJSU has gradually expanded after its initial formation in 2000. In 2000, the party had only two seats which increased to five in 2009 and six in 2014.

--IANS

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