Jharkhand is facing a critical law and order situation, with Opposition leader Babulal Marandi launching a scathing attack on the state government for its alleged failure to control rising crime and rampant criminal activities. Marandi highlighted the unchecked ‘levy’ collection, a form of extortion, which has become pervasive across the state. He revealed that a notorious criminal, reportedly operating from abroad, is instilling fear and conducting extortion rackets that have now reached the state capital, Ranchi, impacting businesses in Dhanbad, Bokaro, and Jamshedpur. During his recent travels, Marandi gathered distressing testimonies from individuals in these areas regarding the pervasive terror. Numerous prominent traders revealed being extorted for sums as high as 5 to 10 crore rupees, their identities kept secret due to extreme fear. The gravity of the crisis was further amplified by a recent extortion threat targeting a distinguished doctor in Ranchi, who was demanded millions. This alarming trend signifies a total collapse of governance and security. Marandi insisted that the state government has the means to apprehend criminals residing overseas. If extradition is difficult, he demanded the immediate arrest of their local accomplices. He raised concerns that this criminal network might be operating under the direct protection of the Chief Minister and high-ranking police officials, facilitating targeted threats and collections. Conversely, he suggested the government and police might be too intimidated and powerless to combat this escalating criminal menace. The current environment is characterized by fear among Jharkhand’s business community and doctors. Marandi has issued a stern ultimatum to the state government: take immediate, decisive action to apprehend criminals and imprison them, or face the opposition’s conclusion that the government is actively collaborating in this extortion racket.
