Former Jharkhand CM and JMM Founder Shibu Soren Passes Away at 81 After Prolonged Illness

• Aug 4, 2025

Ranchi, August 4, 2025 — Shibu Soren, the towering tribal leader, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, and founder of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), passed away today at the age of 81 following a prolonged illness. His demise marks the end of an era in Jharkhand politics, and tributes have poured in from across the nation mourning the loss of one of India's most influential tribal voices.

🕊️ The End of a Political Era

Shibu Soren had been undergoing treatment for multiple age-related health complications for the past several months. He was admitted to a private hospital in Ranchi, where his condition had reportedly deteriorated in recent days. He breathed his last surrounded by close family members, including his son and current Jharkhand Chief Minister, Hemant Soren.

🌾 A Life Dedicated to Tribal Rights and Jharkhand’s Identity

Popularly known as “Guruji”, Shibu Soren’s journey from a tribal activist in the forests of Santhal Parganas to a national political figure was nothing short of legendary. He was instrumental in spearheading the long-standing demand for a separate Jharkhand state, which eventually came to fruition in 2000.

Soren founded the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) in the 1970s to fight for the land rights, cultural identity, and dignity of the tribal communities. He was known for his deep connection to grassroots movements and was revered as a spiritual and political leader among Adivasi groups.

🏛️ Political Milestones

• Served as Chief Minister of Jharkhand on three separate occasions

• Held the position of Union Coal Minister in the UPA government

• Played a pivotal role in UPA’s early political alliances in Jharkhand

• Was elected multiple times to both the Lok Sabha and the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly

His political career, however, was not without controversy. He faced several legal and political battles, including cases related to protests and land movements. But despite these, he retained his status as a people's leader.

🧭 Legacy of a Tribal Icon

Soren’s legacy lies in his relentless advocacy for tribal rights, land reforms, and forest policies that favored indigenous communities. He became a symbol of resistance against exploitation and a pioneer in promoting Adivasi assertion in democratic politics.

His leadership helped shape Jharkhand’s identity and gave voice to communities that had long been marginalized in Indian politics.

💬 Nation Reacts

Leaders across party lines expressed their condolences:

• PM Narendra Modi: “Deeply saddened by the demise of Shibu Soren Ji. He was a veteran leader who championed tribal rights and development. My condolences to his family and followers.”

• Rahul Gandhi: “Guruji’s contribution to social justice and Jharkhand’s formation is immeasurable. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.”

• Arvind Kejriwal, Mamata Banerjee, and Nitish Kumar also issued heartfelt tributes, acknowledging his impact on grassroots politics.

🕯️ Final Rites and State Mourning

The Jharkhand government has declared three days of state mourning. Shibu Soren’s mortal remains will be kept at the JMM office in Ranchi for public homage, after which they will be taken to his native village, Nemra in Bokaro district, for the final rites.

A state funeral with full honors is expected to be conducted tomorrow.