Latest news from Jharkhand:

Latest news from Jharkhand:

Political Developments

• Cabinet Expansion: On December 5, 2024, Chief Minister Hemant Soren expanded his cabinet, inducting 11 legislators from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The oath-taking ceremony was conducted by Protem Speaker Stephen Marandi at the Raj Bhavan. The new ministers include five from JMM, four from Congress, and one from RJD.

• Legal Relief for CM Soren: On December 4, 2024, the Jharkhand High Court granted Chief Minister Hemant Soren relief in a money laundering case related to a land scam. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had previously issued multiple summonses to Soren, which he had not responded to. The court's decision has provided temporary respite to the Chief Minister.

Crime and Law Enforcement

• Arrest in Rape and Murder Case: In West Singhbhum district, a man was arrested for the alleged rape and subsequent murder of a 14-year-old girl. The incident has drawn significant attention, and the police are conducting a thorough investigation.

• Bicycle Theft Gang Busted: Jharkhand police have dismantled a major bicycle theft ring, arresting four individuals and recovering 70 stolen motorcycles. The operation highlights the police's commitment to combating vehicle-related crimes in the state.

Education and Employment

• JSSC Exam Results Halted: The Jharkhand High Court has temporarily halted the final results of the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) recruitment examination held in September. The court directed the government to ensure that First Information Reports (FIRs) are filed and investigations are conducted into allegations of question paper leaks.

• First All-Women Shift in Iron Ore Mine: In a pioneering move, an iron ore mine in Jharkhand has initiated India's first all-women shift. Women are now operating heavy machinery, including excavators, loaders, drills, and dozers, marking a significant step towards gender inclusivity in the mining sector.

Infrastructure and Environment

• Land-Related Services Under RTI Act: The Jharkhand government has decided to bring land-related tasks under the Right to Service Act to ensure timely completion. This initiative aims to streamline land services and reduce bureaucratic delays.

• Forest Protection Efforts: A village head in Jharkhand has been leading a campaign for tourist safety and forest protection. Over the past decade, he has been educating villagers about the environmental impact of deforestation, resulting in the community actively guarding a 500-acre forest against illegal tree felling.

Health and Safety

• High Alert for HMPV Cases: Jharkhand is on high alert following reports of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in neighboring states. The state is equipped to handle emergencies and is monitoring the situation closely to prevent any potential outbreaks.

Transportation

• Flight Diversions Due to Poor Visibility: Flights have been diverted, and several others delayed in Ranchi due to poor visibility. The adverse weather conditions have affected air travel, and authorities are working to manage the situation effectively.

Social Issues

• Elephant Attacks in East Singhbhum: Two individuals, including an elderly woman, lost their lives in separate elephant attacks in East Singhbhum district. Villagers have staged protests demanding compensation and better measures to prevent such incidents.

Political Landscape

• Opposition's Victory in Jharkhand: In the state elections held in November 2024, the opposition parties, including the Congress, secured a victory in Jharkhand. The Congress party and its allies won 50 out of 81 seats, marking a significant political shift in the state.