Veteran Leader and Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren Passes Away at 81

New Delhi: In a tragic development, senior politician and former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren passed away at the age of 81 on Monday morning. The veteran leader, who was a towering figure in Jharkhand politics and a founding patron of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), breathed his last at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, where he had been receiving treatment for over a month.

Hospitalization and Health Struggles

Shibu Soren was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in the national capital at the end of June 2024, battling serious kidney-related complications. After weeks of critical illness and being placed on ventilator support, he succumbed to his condition in the early hours. According to hospital bulletins, Soren struggled with both respiratory and kidney issues and had been in intensive care throughout his stay.

Family and Last Moments

He was visited in hospital by family members, including his son and current Jharkhand Chief Minister, Hemant Soren. Hemant Soren confirmed his father’s death in an emotional message posted on social media, calling it a “tragic loss not only for their family but for the entire state and country.” The Chief Minister highlighted his father’s lifelong contributions to the people of Jharkhand and his steadfast leadership in the struggle for statehood.

A Pillar of Jharkhand Politics

Shibu Soren’s death marks the end of an era in Jharkhand politics. A founding leader of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, he played a central role in the decades-long campaign for the creation of a separate Jharkhand state, once part of Bihar. His leadership during the tumultuous years of agitation earned him deep respect among adivasis and marginalized communities.

Soren led the JMM for nearly four decades and served multiple terms as Jharkhand Chief Minister, as well as holding the post of Union Coal Minister. He was also a current member of the Rajya Sabha. Known affectionately as “Guruji” among his supporters, Soren was seen as the guiding figure behind the JMM’s continued political relevance.

National and Statewide Mourning

News of Soren’s demise prompted an outpouring of grief across political lines. Leaders from across the spectrum praised his lifelong dedication to the tribal cause and his relentless pursuit of social justice. The Jharkhand government is expected to announce state mourning, and details of his final rites will be released soon.

Legacy

Soren’s greatest legacy remains his unwavering commitment to the people of Jharkhand and his role in shaping the state’s political landscape. His passing leaves a deep void not only for the JMM but also for all who admired his dedication, resilience, and vision for a more inclusive society.

Condolences Pour In

Hemant Soren’s tweet announcing his father’s death read:

“With immense grief, I share that our beloved Guruji is no more. His sacrifice and lifelong struggle for the rights of Jharkhand’s people will inspire generations to come.”

Senior politicians, including leaders from opposition parties and members of parliament, have also expressed condolences, marking the loss of a towering personality in Indian politics.

Shibu Soren will be remembered for his pioneering role in the formation of Jharkhand, for his convictions, and for a life spent in the service of the marginalized and oppressed.