Speculation Over BJP Move
Union Minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) president, Jitan Ram Manjhi, welcomed former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren into the “NDA family,” sparking rumours of Soren’s potential shift to the BJP. In a post on social media platform X, Manjhi referred to Soren as a “tiger,” reinforcing the speculation. Despite this, the BJP has not officially confirmed Soren’s move.
Champai Soren’s Experience of ‘Bitter Humiliation’
On Sunday, Soren shared his feelings of “bitter humiliation” during his tenure as Jharkhand Chief Minister, fuelling further speculation. He disclosed that his government programs, planned for early July, were cancelled by the party leadership without his consent. Despite his silence, Soren felt deeply insulted, prompting him to consider an alternative political path. He shared his frustrations on social media, revealing that he had announced a new chapter in his life, with three options: retirement, forming a new political organisation, or aligning with a new ally.
Soren’s Political Options
Soren began his term as the 12th Chief Minister of Jharkhand on February 2 after his predecessor, Hemant Soren, resigned before being arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a money-laundering case. Hemant Soren was released on bail on June 28 and re-elected as the JMM’s legislature party leader on July 3. Champai Soren then resigned, paving the way for Hemant Soren to return as Chief Minister for a third term.
Hemant Soren’s Criticism of BJP
In a separate development, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren accused the BJP of “poaching” MLAs and dividing society. Speaking at an event in Godda district, he claimed that the BJP was bringing people from other states to spread division among tribals, Dalits, and other communities. He criticised the BJP’s tactics, suggesting they were not only dividing society but also breaking families and parties for political gain.
While the speculation about Champai Soren’s potential shift to the BJP continues, the political dynamics in Jharkhand remain tense. The BJP has yet to make an official statement on the matter, leaving room for further developments.
