Hemant Soren, the leader of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), has been invited by Governor CP Radhakrishnan to form the state’s administration, and he is scheduled to take the oath of office as chief minister at 5 p.m. today, as per the reports. After Champai Soren resigned as chief minister on July 3, Governor Radhakrishnan requested the JMM president, who is being held free on bail in connection with a money laundering case, to assume leadership of the state government earlier today.
Historical Context and Political Background
Since Jharkhand was divided from Bihar on November 15, 2000, Hemant Soren has served as the state’s chief minister thirteen times. Earlier, JMM general secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya said that July 7 is the day of the new government’s swearing-in ceremony. Hemant Soren visited the Raj Bhavan in Ranchi today to formally pass over the keys, escorted by prominent members of the INDIA bloc, upon receiving the invitation from the Governor.
Champai Soren, who took office only five months ago, stated that he was in favor of Hemant Soren leading the government once more. “A few days ago, I was sworn in as Chief Minister, shouldering the responsibility. However, in light of Hemant Soren’s return, our alliance collectively made this decision. I have now tendered my resignation,” Champai Soren informed the media.
Announcement of Swearing-In Ceremony
Prior to his resignation and legal issues, Hemant Soren was the Chief Minister of Jharkhand. After receiving bail from the Jharkhand High Court in a case involving suspected money laundering connected to a land fraud, he was freed from Birsa Munda Jail on June 28. These accusations were connected to his detention by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in January, which led to his resignation as Chief Minister. Hemant Soren and the JMM leadership will assume control of Jharkhand’s government as the power shift moves forward; further information will likely be disclosed in the days ahead.