Babulal Marandi, the Leader of the Opposition in Jharkhand and state BJP President, has accused the ruling government of creating new criminal narratives to hide prevailing corruption, particularly within the state’s coal industry. He asserted that fabricating new offenses to cover up existing crimes has become a systemic issue in Jharkhand. Recent ED actions in the Dhanbad coal belt have uncovered significant evidence of illicit operations. The situation has taken a darker turn with reports indicating that senior police officials, allegedly profiting from the black market in coal, have tasked their associates in the mafia with eliminating individuals who are currently cooperating with ED investigations. This alleged conspiracy aims to prevent these individuals from divulting incriminating information. Marandi recalled past events in the state where ‘encountering evidence’ was a tactic used to suppress truth and justice. He specifically mentioned a former DGP who faced severe accusations of contract killings and extreme corruption, allegations even acknowledged by members of the ruling party. The ED is strongly cautioned to be highly vigilant, as the prevailing environment in Jharkhand tends to favor the suppression of truth. When the pillars of power, law enforcement, and organized crime align, the systematic destruction of justice becomes an unfortunate reality.
