Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren Campaigns for JMM Candidate in Digboi

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren campaigned in Digboi for JMM candidate Bharat Nayak, emphasizing the plight of tea garden workers and criticizing the BJP. With a significant turnout at the Bogapani Tea Garden, Soren's efforts may indicate a shift in voter support that could influence the upcoming elections. Nayak expressed confidence in countering his opponent's strategies, while grassroots organizations show increasing support for the JMM, suggesting potential changes in the political landscape of Digboi.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 2, 2026, 11:47 IST

Campaigning in Digboi

Digboi, April 2: On Wednesday, Hemant Soren, the Chief Minister of Jharkhand, visited Digboi to support Bharat Nayak, the candidate from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). His campaign highlighted a potential shift in the crucial tea garden vote, which could play a significant role in the 84 Digboi Assembly constituency.

The event held at Bogapani Tea Garden attracted a large crowd of local voters and various organizations, indicating a surge in political engagement in the area.

During his speech, Soren criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), targeting both the central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the state administration. He claimed that the tea garden communities have been overlooked by the current government.

Addressing the issue of the Rs 250 daily wage for tea workers, Soren described it as insufficient, stating that it fails to meet their needs. He dismissed government welfare initiatives, such as land pattas, as mere 'eyewash', asserting that they have not led to any real improvements in the workers' lives.

Soren promised that if his party's candidate wins, efforts would be made to raise wages and enhance basic amenities for tea garden workers.

Bharat Nayak, the JMM candidate and a former ZPC contestant, expressed optimism about his chances of winning, claiming he understands the electoral strategies of his opponent, Phukan, and is prepared to counter them effectively.

The tea garden voters are a pivotal demographic in Digboi, and Soren's campaign is perceived as a strategy to solidify support from this group. There are signs of shifting allegiances among some tea garden voters, which could adversely affect the BJP's standing in the constituency.

Reports indicate that various Adivasi student organizations and their affiliates have rallied behind the JMM candidate, hinting at a shift in grassroots support. The BJP, which previously enjoyed backing from these groups, is now encountering dissatisfaction over unresolved issues.

Political analysts believe that if this trend continues to consolidate, it could significantly impact the electoral results in Digboi.