Daijiworld Media Network - Ranchi
Ranchi, Nov 7: Tribal rights activist Nisha Kumari Bhagat allegedly died by suicide at her residence in Ranchi on Friday, November 6, shortly after broadcasting an emotional Facebook Live session in which she accused the Hemant Soren-led Jharkhand government, alleged land mafias and the administration of failing to protect her and address her grievances.
The incident has triggered widespread concern over the safety of tribal activists, while opposition leaders have demanded a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Bhagat, aged around 38, was known for her vocal campaigns concerning tribal rights, Adivasi identity and the Sarna faith. In an approximately 11-minute Facebook Live video, which subsequently circulated widely on social media, she appeared visibly distressed and spoke about the difficulties she had allegedly faced while fighting against land mafias and raising issues affecting the tribal community.
During the broadcast, she alleged that speaking against the Hemant Soren government and its alleged land brokers had become dangerous. She expressed frustration over what she described as the administration's failure to respond to her complaints and provide the necessary protection despite repeatedly approaching officials.
She also spoke about the Sarna religion, the ongoing Sarna-Sanatan debate and issues concerning tribal identity. Bhagat questioned why her efforts to highlight problems affecting her community had failed to bring about any meaningful change.
The activist reportedly expressed disappointment over the lack of support from political organisations and individuals whom she had expected to stand by her. She also spoke about online harassment and allegations made against her, expressing anguish over being portrayed negatively despite her efforts for tribal causes.
During the Facebook Live session, Bhagat also contacted the officer-in-charge of Pithoria police station and questioned the police over their alleged failure to address her complaints. She reportedly raised the issue of an unresolved robbery at her residence and sought action against those she accused of harassing and defaming her.
She also expressed concern about the emotional impact her death would have on her parents, particularly recalling her father's association with the Jharkhand movement. The livestream ended abruptly.
According to police, the incident came to light around 12.15 pm. After receiving information about the situation, a police team reached her residence in the Pithoria police station limits and rushed her to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi. However, doctors declared her dead on arrival.
Ranchi Rural Superintendent of Police Gaurav Goswami said the police were investigating all aspects of the incident, including the Facebook Live recording, her reported telephone conversations and complaints, if any, lodged at Pithoria police station. He said further action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation and the post-mortem report.
Police are also examining the circumstances surrounding the allegations made by Bhagat and speaking to people connected with her. The exact reasons leading to her death have not yet been established.
Bhagat had emerged as a prominent voice on tribal rights and the Sarna faith. She had previously participated in protests concerning Adivasi identity and religious recognition. Last year, she attracted attention when she shaved her head during a demonstration over issues concerning the Sarna community. She had also contested the 2024 Assembly elections from Gumla.
Her death has triggered sharp political reactions in Jharkhand, with Leader of the Opposition Babulal Marandi holding the state government accountable for the alleged failure to protect her.
Expressing grief, Marandi said Bhagat had dedicated herself to fighting for the rights and interests of the tribal community. He alleged that her Facebook Live recording reflected the helplessness, frustration and anguish of a social activist who believed that the administration had repeatedly denied her justice.
"The pain and anguish expressed by Nisha Bhagat through her Facebook Live session before her death were not merely her personal suffering; rather, they exposed the reality of the state's present system. Her statement clearly reflects her disillusionment with the system and the agony of being denied justice," Marandi said.
Marandi alleged that land mafias and brokers were operating in Jharkhand with political protection and accused the Hemant Soren government of failing to take action against those involved in illegal land dealings.
He further claimed that Bhagat had identified individuals whom she held responsible for her circumstances and demanded immediate action against those named by her. He also questioned the role of the Pithoria police station and the administration in addressing her complaints.
Demanding an independent investigation, Marandi called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the entire incident to establish the facts, examine the allegations and ensure accountability.
He also launched a strong attack on Chief Minister Hemant Soren, questioning his government's handling of law and order and its response to complaints concerning alleged land grabbing.
"If the Chief Minister is unable to maintain law and order in the state or keep land brokers in check, he should immediately resign from his position as Chief Minister," Marandi said.
BJP leaders have also demanded action against the police personnel concerned and those named in Bhagat's allegations.
Meanwhile, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) declined to comment on the incident, while its ally, CPI(ML) Liberation, called for a fair investigation.
Bhagat's death has brought renewed attention to concerns surrounding alleged land-related exploitation, the protection of tribal rights and the difficulties faced by activists who raise such issues. The police investigation is expected to examine her allegations and the circumstances leading to the tragedy.