Following the Central Government’s statement in the Lok Sabha denying any pending dues to Jharkhand, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) launched a scathing attack on the Centre and warned of stopping mining operations in the state.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, JMM General Secretary and Spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya criticized the Centre and issued a stern warning. He declared that unless the state’s dues are settled, no coal trucks would be allowed to leave Jharkhand, and the party is prepared to pursue the matter legally.
Bhattacharya pointed out that the Union Coal Minister had previously visited Jharkhand and assured the Chief Minister that the state’s dues would be repaid. However, the Centre now appears to be backtracking on its promise.
Referring to the recent Lok Sabha proceedings, Bhattacharya noted that when MP Pappu Yadav raised the issue of Jharkhand’s dues, the government claimed that no money was owed. He accused the Minister of State for Finance of deliberately omitting crucial facts about coal-related payments.
He further stated that Jharkhand’s Land and Revenue Department has issued a clear ultimatum to Coal India. If Coal India fails to respond to the department’s queries within 15 days, the JMM will block the transportation of coal from the state.
"We suffer the consequences while you enjoy the benefits—this won’t continue any longer," Bhattacharya said. "We are ready to fight for our rightful royalty. This government will not bow down or give up."
In a related move, the Revenue and Land Reforms Department of Jharkhand has appointed its Special Secretary to address legal challenges surrounding the recovery of dues from Coal India Limited. The department has also requested a status report on the legal steps taken within 15 days.
On the other hand, State BJP Spokesperson Pratul Shahdev criticized the Jharkhand government for a lack of transparency. He urged the state to disclose full details regarding the claimed amount of ₹1.36 lakh crore, specifying the concerned departments and the relevant years.
"The issue cannot be resolved through vague statements about coal dues, Samta Judgment payments, or land acquisition costs," Shahdev said. "The government must provide a clear, systematic breakdown of all pending claims."
