Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) founder Shibu Soren passed away at 81 after a prolonged illness. Known as “Guruji,” Soren was a tribal rights icon and three-time Chief Minister of Jharkhand. Tributes poured in from leaders across India mourning the loss of a champion of indigenous empowerment.
Condolences poured in from across the political spectrum on Monday as former Jharkhand Chief Minister and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) founder-patron Shibu Soren passed away at the age of 81 following a prolonged illness. Known as “Guruji” or “Dishom Guru” to his followers, Soren was a towering figure in Jharkhand’s political and tribal rights landscape, having devoted his life to the upliftment of indigenous communities and the creation of a separate state for Jharkhand.
The news of his demise was confirmed by his son, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who wrote in a heartfelt message, “Our beloved Guruji is no more. His absence leaves a void not only in our lives but in the hearts of lakhs of people for whom he fought tirelessly.”
Shibu Soren’s journey in public life is deeply interwoven with the history and identity of Jharkhand. Born on January 11, 1944, in Nemra village of present-day Jharkhand, Soren emerged as a fierce campaigner for tribal rights during the 1970s. He founded the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) in 1972 to unite and amplify the voices of tribal communities who felt sidelined in a region rich in mineral wealth but marked by poverty, displacement, and exploitation.
His decades-long struggle played a critical role in the formation of Jharkhand as India’s 28th state on November 15, 2000.
Though he held various political positions over the years, including being elected to the Lok Sabha multiple times, Soren’s most defining role came as Chief Minister of Jharkhand. He served three terms — in 2005, 2008–2009, and 2009–2010. However, political instability often curtailed the duration of his governance. Nevertheless, his influence over state politics was undeniable.
Leaders across the ideological spectrum paid tribute to the departed leader. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences to Hemant Soren and the family, calling Shibu Soren “a stalwart who dedicated his life to tribal welfare and social justice.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his grief on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Shibu Soren ji’s contribution to Indian politics, especially in tribal and grassroots advocacy, will always be remembered.”
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge referred to Soren as a “champion of the marginalized,” while West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she was “deeply saddened by the loss of a leader who remained close to his roots.”
Soren’s political career wasn’t without controversy. He faced legal challenges during his tenure, including convictions that were later overturned. However, his grassroots connection with the tribal population never waned, and he remained a symbol of resistance and hope for many.
His leadership style was marked by simplicity, humility, and a deep understanding of rural and tribal life. He was seen by many as a leader who never distanced himself from the people he represented. Whether through fiery speeches in Parliament or during local rallies in remote villages, Soren communicated with a rare sincerity that struck a chord with the masses.
Beyond politics, Shibu Soren was also a cultural icon among Jharkhand’s tribal groups. His efforts to preserve tribal language, traditions, and forest rights were consistent throughout his career. His name will forever be linked with movements against land acquisition, illegal mining, and displacement of indigenous people.
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His passing leaves a void in the state’s political and social landscape, but his legacy endures. As Jharkhand observes mourning, the people of the state — especially its tribal communities — remember him as the father of their aspirations and identity.
Funeral arrangements are expected to take place in Ranchi with full state honours. Jharkhand has declared two days of state mourning in memory of the departed leader.
