Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan voiced concerns on Friday about what he termed "state-sponsored infiltration" in Jharkhand, asserting that India is "not a dharmshala" where anyone can freely settle. Speaking at an election rally in Ranchi, Chouhan accused the JMM-led coalition of supporting infiltrators, claiming they exploit local communities by “trapping tribal women in illusions” to gain a foothold.

“India isn’t a dharmshala. It’s our land, with our water, forests, rivers, and fields. We won’t let outsiders take that from us,” he asserted, arguing that foreign infiltrators endanger the state's security.

Chouhan alleged that the current ruling alliance treats these infiltrators as a vote bank, assisting them in gaining voter IDs, Aadhaar, and ration cards. He further claimed that this support has led to a drop in the tribal population in areas like Santhal Parganas, from 44% to 28%.

If the BJP gains power in Jharkhand, Chouhan promised to establish a citizenship register and expel infiltrators from the state.

At the BJP’s women’s conference in East Singhbhum, Chouhan also criticized the JMM-led government for allegedly mismanaging the PM Awas Yojana, claiming that better execution would have ensured permanent housing for women.

“The BJP will ensure solid homes for women still living in kutcha houses,” he said, while also alleging corruption in the “Har Ghar Nal Se Jal” scheme to the tune of Rs 5,000 crore.

Chouhan noted that the government began monthly payments of Rs 1,000 to women just as elections approached, promising that a BJP administration would increase this amount to Rs 2,100 per month.

Polling in Jharkhand is scheduled for November 13 and 20, with vote counting on November 23.