Rahul Gandhi's election rallies in Jharkhand's Chaibasa and Basia on Tuesday took place amidst controversy surrounding the absence of Jharkhand Rural Development Minister Alamgir Alam. The Enforcement Directorate's recovery of Rs 34 crore of "unaccounted cash" from the premises of a house help of Alam's personal secretary raised speculation about his absence and whether it was a strategic move to avoid controversy.
Alamgir Alam's secretary, Sanjeev Kumar Lal, and his domestic help Jahangir Alam, were arrested by the central probe agency on Tuesday, further adding to the scrutiny.
The Congress's decision to keep its distance from Alam during Rahul Gandhi's rallies was seen as an attempt to prevent the BJP from exploiting the situation politically, especially given the timing so close to the elections.
Meanwhile, the Leader of the Opposition in the Jharkhand Assembly, Amar Kumar Bauri, questioned Rahul Gandhi's avoidance of the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader Alamgir Alam, demanding an explanation for his absence.
Despite the controversy, Rahul Gandhi used the opportunity to campaign for JMM candidate Joba Majhi, launching scathing attacks on the BJP and the Narendra Modi government. He addressed various issues including reservations, amendments to the Constitution, and atrocities against tribals.
Gandhi reiterated the Congress's promises, including providing Rs 1 lakh per year to women members of poor families and ensuring permanent jobs for one member of every unemployed family.
In response, Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren criticized the BJP for misleading voters with false promises and failing to address issues like unemployment and inflation. Kalpana Soren echoed similar sentiments, calling for a vote against the "dictatorial government of the Centre" and advocating for the victory of the INDIA alliance candidate Joba Manjhi in the upcoming elections.
