West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claims that the Maoist menace in Jangalmahal is under control. But it appears that silently Jangalmahal is preparing for another round of agitation which will begin after the Pujas. The issues raised are the release of leaders like Chhatradhar Mahato and self-governance. A new committee is being formed to lead the renewed agitation. As far as can be ascertained, it will go for peaceful agitation through the democratic path. According to the leaders of the agitation, Mamata Banerjee’s government is behaving just like the Left Front government. Corruption prevails in the name of development. Meetings are being held in the region demanding a Jangalmahal Territorial Administration. But no action will be taken which may invite a crackdown by the police and the joint command. The outfit is also trying to rope in tribal leaders of different political parties. Teams are being formed to look into issues like roads, education, health and so on.
The renewed agitation seems to be more alarming than the armed Maoist insurrection. It is less difficult to put down violent operations than what may turn out to be a mass movement. Whereas the armed Maoists resorted to extortion from the tribals, the peaceful movement will involve all tribal elements in the region and articulate their demands. It also proves that the Trinamool government has failed to rally the tribals under its flag. Corruption is alleged to be stifling all development efforts. The demand for a Territorial Administration appears to get inspiration from the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha which has largely achieved its objective.
