Thousands Pay Tribute to Former Jharkhand CM Shibu Soren as His Mortal Remains Arrive in Ranchi

A somber atmosphere enveloped the Morabadi residence of late Shibu Soren, fondly known as Guruji and one of Jharkhand’s most prominent political figures. On Monday evening, Soren’s mortal remains were brought from Delhi’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital to his Ranchi home, where a steady stream of mourners gathered to pay their respects.

Family members, including Hemant Soren, Basant Soren, and Soren’s grandsons, solemnly carried his body from the vehicle into the house. The casket was draped in the party flag, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha’s bow-and-arrow emblem, and the Indian national tricolor, as final tributes were offered to the revolutionary leader.

Leaders from across the political spectrum—be it ruling parties or the opposition—joined in paying homage. Among those present were opposition leader Babulal Marandi, former Chief Ministers Raghubar Das and Madhu Koda, JMM leaders, Congress functionaries, and representatives from various other parties. Their presence underscored Soren’s legacy as a unifying figure in Jharkhand’s socio-political landscape.

The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha stalwart and eight-time MP, who was serving as a Rajya Sabha member at his death, had been critical for over a month and on a ventilator in Delhi. His passing at 8:56 am on Monday sent a wave of grief through the state. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi, along with leaders from various national parties, offered their condolences both in Delhi and Ranchi.

Shibu Soren’s residence, steeped in the legacy of Jharkhand’s statehood movement, was opened to the public so that ordinary citizens and countless admirers could pay their last respects. The day saw long queues of people outside, some offering flowers, others simply wishing Guruji a final farewell. Many recalled his crucial role in the struggle for Jharkhand’s recognition as a separate state and his three terms as Chief Minister.

The outpouring of respect continued well into the evening, with all sections of society—politicians, lawmakers, government officials, JMM party workers, supporters, and the general public—coming together to honor the man who had shaped Jharkhand’s destiny.

On Tuesday, Shibu Soren will be accorded a state funeral in his ancestral village Nemra, where crowds are expected to gather in even greater numbers for his final journey.

The grief and tribute at his Ranchi residence stand as a testimony to Soren’s indelible impact on Jharkhand’s history and people. As leaders, villagers, and citizens of all walks of life come together, the immense turnout and emotional adieu highlight the void left by the passing of a true “Dasom Guru.”