In a notable political development in Gumla, Arbind Kujur, a former Indian Navy serviceman, has announced his candidacy as an Independent for the Sisai ST seat. With an impressive 15-year career in aviation air electrical engineering with the Navy, Kujur has found his way back to his roots, driven by a strong desire to address pressing local issues such as youth unemployment, rural development, and the rights of tribal communities.
Reflecting on his military service, Kujur shared, “During my tenure in the Indian Navy at various locations, including Vishakhapatnam and Mumbai, I served the nation. Upon returning home, I found rural areas unchanged since the days of undivided Bihar.” This realization prompted him to take action, as he recognized the stark disparities affecting his community.
Kujur’s campaign challenges the current narrative on local unemployment, emphasizing the frustrations of Sisai’s youth. He points out the irony that while local young people are struggling to find jobs, individuals from outside the region seem to secure government positions without difficulty. “Our youth leave as unskilled laborers and return the same, while migrants from other states obtain permanent government employment here,” he stated, calling attention to the systemic imbalances within job opportunities.
The candidate has also been vocal about the issues surrounding the state’s examination system, arguing that its irregular scheduling and instances of paper leaks have discouraged many potential candidates. He pointed out that numerous aspirants have aged out of eligibility due to the prolonged wait for examination processes.
A significant point of concern in Kujur’s campaign is the difficulty tribal youth encounter when trying to access bank loans. He elaborates on the impact of the CNT-SPT provisions, which classify tribal lands as non-transferable, leaving them undervalued in comparison to other properties. “This severely limits our access to substantial loans for business ventures,” Kujur explained, illustrating the economic barriers faced by the tribal community.
Kujur is advocating for comprehensive solutions that extend beyond immediate impacts, urging voters to consider the long-term effects of their choices. “I’m asking people to support me so I can forcefully raise these issues in the assembly,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to fulfill the foundational aspirations that led to the creation of Jharkhand.
His campaign also addresses the ongoing trend of local residents migrating for better opportunities, as Kujur aspires to reverse this exodus. “After serving the nation, I now wish to serve my people and work for regional development. This motivated my entry into active politics,” he expressed, as he continues his efforts to engage with local voters and build a supportive base for his campaign.
