Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren today alleged that "some people in collusion with capitalists" were indulging in defaming the state over closure of iron-ore mines.
"Though iron ore mines have been shut because of negligence of respective (company) managements, some vested interest people are in collusion with capitalists and are bent upon tarnishing the image of the state," Soren said.
His reaction came in the background of some political leaders launching a campaign in West Singhbhum demanding reopening of the 12 closed mines.
Addressing a party workers meeting, he said the "protesters" against the closure of iron ore mines had been those who used to complain against iron ore smuggling and illegal mining.
"These are the same forces who had been complaining about iron-ore smuggling and illegal mining when mines were operational. Today, they are active again when the mines are closed with the sole motive to tarnish the image of the state government," he added.
Stating that Jharkhand was created for the welfare of the people and not for the capitalists, Soren said his government was concern over the closure of mines, but would not overlook the interest of locals, "who have the right over mineral reserves".
"How many of them (tribals) are a doctor or an engineer?" said Soren, referring to the poor tribals residing in the iron-ore rich areas of West and East Singhbhum districts.
"They are deprived of all benefits and are leading a miserable life as labourers despite having abundance of mineral reserve all around them," Soren said.
