The city commemorated the 73rd birth anniversary of the late leader Nirmal Mahto on Monday. "Nirmal Da's sacrifice remains etched in our hearts, and today, we honor his legacy with deep respect," remarked Union Minister Arjun Munda.
Floral tributes were offered at Mahto's statue in Bistupur, where he was tragically gunned down in 1987. Senior JMM leaders, including Health Minister Banna Gupta, shared sentiments of remembrance. "Nirmal Da's vision for a separate state resonates, and we must continue the fight for the betterment of our people," said Gupta.
Various functions unfolded across the city, with a prayer meeting near Nirmal Mahto’s memorial in Kadma. JMM supporters, accompanied by leaders, paid respects at his bust near Tata Steel’s guest house in Bistupur. Jamshedpur MP Bidhyut Baran Mahto reflected, "Nirmal Da's ideals inspire us to strive for a brighter future, fulfilling his dream for our community."
Minister Champai Soren addressed the gathering, emphasizing the need to work for the state's development. "Nirmal Da laid his life for a separate state to ensure tribals earn their livelihood with dignity," he stated. He acknowledged the ongoing fight for Greater Jharkhand while urging action to improve the current living conditions of the state's tribal population.
The gathering this year saw a significant increase, with people from Odisha and West Bengal joining in large numbers. JMM leaders attribute this growth to the expanding influence of Nirmal Da's ideology among party workers in neighboring states. Former Jamshedpur MP Suman Mahto noted, "The increasing turnout reflects the enduring impact of Nirmal Da's ideas beyond our state borders."
Minister Champai Soren, Health Minister Banna Gupta, Jamshedpur MP Bidhyut Baran Mahto, former Jamshedpur MP Suman Mahto, and numerous supporters were present on the occasion.