Guwahati, Aug 17: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has accused the JMM-led government in Jharkhand of engaging in “appeasement politics” following the brutal murder of Havaldar Chouhan Hembram by a convicted prisoner, Shahid Ansari, in a Hazaribag hospital on August 12.

Sarma, who is also the BJP’s election co-incharge in Jharkhand, visited the victim’s family in Bengabad, Giridih district, and criticized the JMM and Congress for not sending any legislators to meet the grieving family.

He also slammed the administration for failing to act swiftly and demanded the immediate arrest and hanging of the accused, as well as a job for Hembram’s kin. Sarma pledged BJP’s support to the family and urged the state government to take action.

Ansari had escaped from custody after the murder, sparking widespread outrage. Sarma’s visit and statements have further highlighted the political tensions surrounding the case.