In a surprising political development, Champai Soren, the former Chief Minister of Jharkhand and a veteran leader of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), is set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday. The announcement was made late last night by Himanta Biswa Sarma, the BJP’s election in-charge for Jharkhand, in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Sarma hailed Soren as a “distinguished adivasi leader of the country.”
Champai Soren, 67, has been a prominent figure in Jharkhand’s political landscape for decades, earning the nickname “Jharkhand Tiger” for his significant role in the movement that led to the creation of Jharkhand state in the 1990s. He took oath as the 12th Chief Minister of Jharkhand on February 2, 2024, but resigned from the post just five months later, on July 3, to make way for Hemant Soren, following his release from jail.
Last week, Soren publicly criticized the JMM leadership, accusing them of insulting him and stating that he would soon decide his next political course. “I would have done more to develop the state had I had some more time,” he lamented, expressing his frustration over his short tenure.
Speculation about Soren’s political future has been rife since his resignation. Despite his initial denials of any plans to leave the JMM, rumors of his potential shift to the BJP persisted. Two weeks ago, Soren was in Delhi, claiming his visit was for “personal work,” but the political buzz continued. The BJP, while playing its cards close to the chest, acknowledged Soren as a “senior leader” who had served Jharkhand well during his brief stint as Chief Minister.
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The speculation was put to rest earlier today when Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that the deal had been finalized. Sarma shared a photograph of Soren meeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah, announcing that the veteran leader would officially join the BJP on August 30 in Ranchi.
“Former Chief Minister of Jharkhand and a distinguished Adivasi leader of our country, @ChampaiSoren Ji met Hon’ble Union Home Minister @AmitShah Ji a short while ago. He will officially join the @BJP4India on 30th August in Ranchi,” Sarma posted.
This development is expected to significantly impact the political dynamics in Jharkhand, especially with the state assembly elections approaching. Champai Soren’s move to the BJP could be a game-changer, given his influence among the tribal communities and his longstanding experience in Jharkhand’s politics.
