India Mourns Iconic Leader Shibu Soren's Passing

Union Minister Rajnath Singh paid his respects on Saturday to Shibu Soren, the former Chief Minister of Jharkhand and the founding patron of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Soren passed away on August 4 following a prolonged illness at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi. Singh visited Soren's residence in Ramgarh, Jharkhand, to offer his condolences, recognizing the void left by Soren's death on behalf of the government and his party.

On August 5, Soren's mortal remains were transported for his last rites to Nimra, his native village in Ramgarh district. Over his four-decade-long political career, Soren served as Jharkhand's Chief Minister three times and held key positions, including the Union Coal Minister under the UPA government led by Dr Manmohan Singh. His remains were carried from his Ranchi residence to the State Assembly for public homage, accompanied by Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed his deep sorrow in an emotional message on X, lamenting not only the loss of a father but a significant figure in Jharkhand's history. Emphasizing the depth of his relationship with Soren, he depicted his father as a guiding force, a protector, and a source of inspiration for the people of Jharkhand.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Derek O'Brien also arrived in Ranchi on August 5 to honor Soren, affectionately referring to him as 'Guruji'. O'Brien extended his condolences on behalf of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the TMC party. Leaders from various political backgrounds have expressed their sorrow over Soren's demise, acknowledging his significant contributions to the tribal community and Indian politics.

Shibu Soren was also commemorated by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on August 5. In a statement on X, Congress honored the legacy of the revered 'Dishom Guruji', acknowledging his lifelong dedication to the rights of the tribal community, predicting that his influence will endure in time to come.

(With inputs from agencies.)