Ranchi, Nov 6 : The death of tribal rights activist Nisha Bhagat following an alleged suicide attempt during a Facebook Live session has triggered a political controversy in Jharkhand, with the BJP demanding an impartial probe and questioning the state government’s response to the incident.
The BJP has sought an explanation from Chief Minister Hemant Soren and demanded action against those allegedly named by Bhagat in her livestream before the incident.
Leader of Opposition in the Jharkhand Assembly Babulal Marandi said Bhagat, who had been fighting for tribal rights and against alleged land grabbing, had named the chief minister, the officer-in-charge of Pithoria police station and Ajay Tirkey in her Facebook Live video.
In a post on X, Marandi expressed grief over her death and alleged that her statements reflected the difficulties faced by tribal communities in the state.
He accused the state government of failing to address concerns relating to tribal land rights and demanded the arrest of those named by Bhagat, besides an impartial investigation into the incident. He also sought Soren’s resignation, alleging administrative failure.
BJP state president Aditya Sahu accused the police and district administration of negligence, claiming that Bhagat had publicly expressed her distress and apprehensions during the livestream, which was watched by several people.
He alleged that the police failed to reach the spot in time and claimed that timely intervention could have helped save her life. Sahu demanded an investigation into the allegations and remarks made by Bhagat in the video.
Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth expressed grief over the incident and said a thorough investigation was necessary to establish the circumstances leading to her death.
He said Bhagat had levelled serious allegations against the state government and individuals allegedly associated with land-related activities. Seth also raised concerns over women’s safety and the law-and-order situation in Jharkhand.
Bhagat, a resident of Pithoria in Ranchi district, allegedly attempted suicide during a Facebook Live session on Friday. She was rushed to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in a critical condition, where doctors later declared her dead, officials said.
During the livestream, she appeared distressed and spoke about her prolonged struggle against alleged land mafias, attempts to tarnish her reputation and grievances against the administration.
She also expressed frustration over being branded a “dalal” and alleged that no action had been taken against those attempting to defame her.
Bhagat further said she had felt isolated despite seeking support from several people and organisations.
The BJP has demanded an impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death and the allegations raised in the livestream.
