NEW DELHI: Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JKLM) leader Jairam Mahato has defeated Jharkhand Mukti Morcha’s (JMM) Bebi Devi in the Dumri assembly election 2024 by a margin of 10,945 votes. Jairam Mahato, a prominent figure within the Kurmi (Mahto) community, has emerged as a voice for local issues, including the promotion of the Jharkhandi language and employment opportunities exclusively for state residents.
Known for his advocacy under the Jharkhandi Bhasha-Khatiyan Sangharsh Samiti, Mahato has gained a strong following among the youth and his community, which constitutes a significant 22% of the state’s population.
This victory comes on the heels of his impressive performance in the Giridih Lok Sabha seat earlier this year, where he contested as an Independent and polled nearly 3.5 lakh votes.
Rise of a New Political Force
Ahead of the 2024 Assembly elections, Mahato launched his political party, the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JKLM), and fielded candidates in multiple constituencies. Contesting from both Dumri and Bermo, his campaign focused on cultural and economic issues resonating with local sentiments.
Mahato’s success in Dumri underscores the potential of his party to reshape the political landscape, particularly by consolidating the Kurmi vote. His ascendancy could pose a challenge to Sudesh Mahto, leader of the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) and a key ally of the BJP. Sudesh Mahto has traditionally helped the BJP consolidate the Kurmi vote, but Jairam’s rise could disrupt this equation.
A Setback for JMM
The defeat of JMM’s Bebi Devi, a seasoned leader, marks a setback for the party, which has traditionally dominated the Dumri seat. Despite her stature and political influence, Bebi Devi’s defeat in the 2024 by-election marks a setback for JMM, highlighting the growing challenge faced by the party in retaining its hold over the Dumri seat.
Implications for Jharkhand Politics
The outcome in Dumri reflects a shift in voter preferences, with caste and local issues taking centre stage. Mahato’s ability to mobilise the Kurmi community and appeal to the youth could significantly influence future elections, both at the state and national levels.
