BJP state president and Leader of the Opposition Babulal Marandi said that DMFT-related corruption exists across the state.
Babulal Marandi (File Photo)
Jharkhand is witnessing a political debate over alleged irregularities in the District Mineral Foundation Trust (DMFT) fund utilization, with the BJP and Congress exchanging statements.
BJP state president and Leader of the Opposition Babulal Marandi said that DMFT-related corruption exists across the state. He said the revelations in Bokaro are only a part, with similar irregularities now reported from Dhanbad and Koderma.
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Marandi alleged that IAS officers in the state carry forward their networks of contractors when transferred, citing Aditya Ranjan. According to Marandi, during his tenure as Koderma DC, Ranjan allegedly misused DMFT funds through MEPSC and Titli Foundation under the name of skill development projects. Similar patterns have resurfaced in Dhanbad.
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He requested Chief Minister Hemant Soren to order a probe into the 2022–24 DMFT fund utilization in Koderma and examine Ranjan’s connections with Pranjal Modi. He also asked for a halt to ongoing DMFT tenders in Dhanbad to allow investigation.
Reacting to Marandi’s statements, Congress, through Satish Paul Munjini, Chairman of the party’s Media wing, dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. Mujni said BJP leaders are attempting to distract public attention by spreading false information.
He referred to past corruption issues under BJP rule, including mining irregularities and national-level cases, and said the party has no authority to question Jharkhand’s government.
Mujni added that the Soren government has implemented online monitoring, social audits, and district-level review meetings to ensure transparency in DMFT fund use. According to him, funds are now directed to local communities for public welfare projects rather than contractors. He said any detected irregularities are investigated by the government, without politicization or misuse of agencies.
The exchange comes ahead of the Ghatsila elections, with both parties presenting their positions on governance and DMFT fund use.
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