Hemant Soren says: 'Bhagwan Birsa Munda-Bhagwan Sido Kanho Award' for Jharkhand's highest civilian honor

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has announced the renaming of the state’s highest civilian award to honor two iconic tribal leaders, Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Bhagwan Sido Kanho Murmu. The award will be officially named the “Bhagwan Birsa Munda-Bhagwan Sido Kanho Award” and is set to be instituted during the first cabinet meeting of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led government if it secures a majority in the ongoing state Assembly elections. Soren confirmed that this decision would be the first act of his government upon taking office.

Birsa Munda, revered as a freedom fighter, was a central figure in the tribal uprising against British colonial rule in the late 19th century. Known for his leadership in the Ulgulan (rebellion), he was instrumental in mobilizing tribal communities against British oppression, advocating for land rights and the preservation of tribal traditions. Sido and Kanho Murmu, the leaders of the Santhal rebellion in 1855, are also celebrated for their fight against British colonial rule and their leadership in mobilizing the Santhal community. The new award’s name reflects the significant roles these leaders played in shaping the region’s history and the independence struggle.

The announcement comes just days before the second phase of the Assembly elections scheduled for November 20. This decision also follows the recent unveiling of a commemorative coin and stamp by the government of India, as well as the renaming of Delhi's Serai Kale Khan bus stand to honor Birsa Munda. While Soren acknowledged the recognition of Birsa Munda, he criticized the Modi government’s decision to rename the bus stand, calling it a superficial gesture that fell short of properly honoring the tribal icon’s legacy. He described it as an "insult" to Munda’s significant contributions and expressed that the gesture lacked a genuine commitment to his memory.

Soren also addressed the BJP in a public rally held at Karkatdih in the Mahagama constituency, accusing the opposition party of attempting to mislead the public with its “Mati, Beti, and Roti” slogan, which he claimed was designed to create divisions and disrupt Jharkhand's harmony. He urged voters to support the I.N.D.I.A alliance to ensure continued peace and unity in the state. Soren reiterated his government’s achievements, including the waiver of loans for farmers, a subsidy of up to 200 units of free electricity for residents, and the implementation of the Abua Awas Yojana, a housing scheme aimed at providing affordable homes to the poor. He also highlighted the Maiya Samman Yojana, which offers Rs 1,000 per month to women from low-income families, with an increase to Rs 2,500 scheduled for December