New Delhi : Former Jharkhand Chief Minister and founder of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Shibu Soren, passed away at the age of 81 in Delhi’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital after a prolonged illness.
The news was confirmed by his son and current Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who shared an emotional tribute, stating, “Today, I have become zero.”
In honor of the veteran leader, the Jharkhand government has declared three days of state mourning, from August 4 to 6. All government offices will remain closed on August 4 and 5, and official events have been cancelled.
Known as “Dishom Guru,” Shibu Soren was a towering figure in tribal politics. He founded JMM in 1972 and led major movements for the rights of indigenous communities. He served three terms as Jharkhand Chief Minister and held the post of Union Coal Minister in the UPA government.
Born on January 11, 1944, in Nemra village (Ramgarh district), Soren played a crucial role in the formation of the Jharkhand state and championed tribal welfare and land rights throughout his political life.
Top national leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, expressed deep condolences, remembering him as a dedicated leader who fought for the marginalized.
Soren’s passing marks the end of an era in Jharkhand’s political history. His legacy will continue through the ongoing leadership of his son Hemant Soren and the JMM.
