Jharkhand's Chief Minister, Hemant Soren, voiced allegations on Friday, claiming that the Centre owes the state a staggering amount of Rs 1.36 lakh crore in royalties for coal mined from the region. Speaking at a public gathering, he criticized the Centre for evading discussions on this significant sum owed to the state.

Highlighting the issue, Soren emphasized that despite the substantial coal extraction from Jharkhand, the outstanding amount owed to the state remains unaddressed by the Centre. He criticized the past governance of the state for not pursuing this due amount or fighting for the state's rights, stating that this money rightfully belongs to the people of Jharkhand.

Additionally, Soren accused the Centre of discontinuing financial aid for housing projects aimed at assisting the underprivileged and for not providing support during natural calamities like droughts. Asserting Jharkhand's determination for self-reliance, he expressed the need for unified efforts in fighting for the state's rights and vowed to collectively uphold them.

Further sharpening his criticism, Soren targeted the opposition BJP, condemning their purported inclination towards serving the affluent. He accused the BJP of selling public assets and enterprises to businessmen, alleging a disregard for the interests of common people, backward classes, Dalits, tribals, and minorities.

Addressing rural development, he underscored the necessity of infrastructural advancement, mentioning the allocation of around Rs 1,000 crore for rural road development in Palamu as part of the state's efforts towards progress.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren was in Palamu district as part of the 'government at doorstep' program, engaging with the public on these crucial issues concerning the state's development and rights.