Aarti Kujur, member of Zila Parishad elected from Namkom Central ward, after defeating the renowned social worker Sundri Tirkey talked about her role and developmental issues to The Pioneer. Kujur is a Ranchi University topper in Political Science, law graduate and a social worker in Namkum. She is also a member of Birsa Ulgulan Manch and is associated with BJP since 2013. Kujur had even tried her luck in Assembly elections from Khijri. Excerpts:
You have defeated Sundri Tirkey, a well known face in Namkum block. Were you confident about the winIJ
last time, we contested elections from two different wards and we both emerged as the winners in the respective wards. But this time we both contested from central Namkum and at the end of the day the people have appreciated the work done and have voted for change and development of community.
What are your basic priorities and how will you handle the challengesIJ
My main priority is development, targeting girls and women and will also deal with the issue of migration. When I started working for development, I had to face several challenges. The problem is allocation of funds as we do not get funds in time. As panchayat representatives, government delegations do not give any value to us. And as a result, we need to protest through demonstrations, rallies to get our work done which eventually hampers the development.
What are the issues that you will focus in Central NamkumIJ
We have drafted out four core issues which people face in Central Namkom. Roads, electricity, irrigation and land issues are my main concerns which need to be sorted out.
Any specific plans you have initiated to empower womenIJ
We have started one self defense training centre to empower women. Presently it is at initial stage, only 10 girls and 4 women have enrolled themselves with us. I am also demanding for regular police patrolling in the area to combat the problem of eve teasing and harassment.
What is Birsa Ulgulan Manch (NGO) doing for the publicIJ
Our main focus is to provide legal aid and deal with the cases of land issues which is very prominent in the outskirts. We also provide awareness about various rights to the rural people. We have also established Mahila Ulgulan Manch for the upliftment of women to combat the issue of my migration.
Will you contest for the post of Zila Parishad chairpersonIJ
Yes, will surely contest for the post of Zila Parishad chairperson.