BJP holds torch rally in Jhargram, targets government over alleged scams and farmers’ distress

The Bharatiya Janata Party organized a torch rally in Jhargram, aiming to corner the state government over allegations of corruption and administrative failures. The rally began from the BJP party office and moved through the city before culminating at Panch Matha Mor, with party workers marching while carrying burning torches.

The campaign was led by BJP candidate Laxmi Kant Sahu and saw the presence of several senior leaders, including Jhargram district president Tufan Mahato and state committee member Sukhamay Satpati. A large number of party workers joined the procession, creating a charged atmosphere as long lines of supporters walked through the streets with torches. The active participation of many women supporters also stood out during the rally.

Addressing the gathering, Sahu said the torch rally was intended to “remove the darkness” that he claimed has engulfed the city due to alleged corruption. He accused the state government of misappropriating nearly ₹6,500 crore earmarked for the Jhargram Mayurjharna Elephant Reservoir project and raised questions over the issue, naming minister Birbaha Hansda. He also alleged irregularities in the implementation of funds under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The BJP leader further criticized the government over the situation faced by farmers, claiming they are suffering significant losses due to falling potato prices. According to Sahu, the torch march symbolized a call for change and the beginning of a new phase of development in Jhargram after what he described as 16 years of stagnation. Meanwhile, a district-level Trinamool Congress leader dismissed the allegations as baseless, asserting that the BJP lacked concrete development plans and that voters would respond appropriately in the upcoming elections.