Following the death of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) founder and former Chief Minister Shibu Soren on Monday morning, political leaders from across the country reached Delhi’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital to offer their condolences. His passing after a prolonged illness triggered a wave of grief across Jharkhand.
Among the first to pay their respects were Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, who visited the hospital and offered condolences to his son Hemant Soren and daughter-in-law Kalpana Soren. PM Modi wrote on X, “Shibu Soren Ji dedicated his life to the welfare of tribal communities and will always be remembered for it.”
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also arrived at the hospital shortly after. Kharge confirmed they would attend the last rites in Jharkhand, stating, “Yes, Rahul Gandhi and I will both be present at the funeral.”
In emotional tributes, Rahul Gandhi posted, “A strong voice of the tribal society, Soren Ji struggled lifelong for their rights. His contribution to Jharkhand’s formation will always be remembered.”
Kharge added, “Shibu Soren Ji fought lifelong to protect water, forest, land, and tribal culture. His demise is an irreparable loss.”
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed his sorrow on X, writing, “Adarniya Dishom Guruji has left us… I feel empty today.” Kalpana Soren wrote, “Everything feels deserted… Final salute, Baba. Your love and your struggle will never be forgotten.”
State Health Minister Irfan Ansari confirmed that Shibu Soren’s mortal remains would be flown to Ranchi by a special aircraft around 4 PM Monday. The body will first be kept at his Morhabadi residence for public tribute, and then taken to the Jharkhand Assembly at 11 AM Tuesday for leaders and officials to pay respects. The final rites will be conducted at his native village Nemra in Ramgarh district at 3 PM on Tuesday.
Soren’s political journey began in 1980 as a Lok Sabha MP. He played a key role in advocating for tribal rights and the demand for a separate Jharkhand state, which came into existence on 15 November 2000. He served three terms as the Chief Minister in 2005, 2008, and 2009.
Despite his achievements, his career also saw controversies, including corruption and murder allegations, though he was acquitted in several cases. Yet, his public image as “Dishom Guru” remained deeply respected.
His demise marks not just the end of a towering political figure but also the voice that once rose from Jharkhand’s forests to echo in Parliament. The responsibility now lies with the next generation to carry forward his legacy and unfulfilled dreams.
