How Are Bihar Leaders Remembering Shibu Soren's Legacy?

Patna, Aug 4 (NationPress) Political leaders from various parties in Bihar are in mourning over the passing of Shibu Soren, a prominent tribal leader and former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, who died at the age of 81 in a Delhi hospital after a prolonged illness.

Soren's demise has cast a shadow of grief over Jharkhand and the broader tribal political movement. A state period of mourning has been initiated in Jharkhand, with numerous national leaders expected to pay their respects at his final rites.

As a key figure in India's tribal rights movement, Soren established the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha in 1972 and was instrumental in the formation of Jharkhand in 2000, which was carved out of Bihar following years of persistent advocacy. He held the Chief Minister position in Jharkhand three times: briefly in 2005, and then from 2008 to 2010. Additionally, Soren served as the Union Coal Minister and was elected to the Lok Sabha seven times representing Dumka.

Throughout his extensive political career, Soren faced many controversies but remained a giant in tribal politics, celebrated for his steadfast dedication to indigenous rights, land reform, and elevating the disenfranchised.

In the wake of his passing, political leaders in Bihar expressed their sorrow and paid tributes.

RJD National President and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav remarked on the loss, calling it “an irreparable loss.”

“He was our ally, and we collaborated closely. His passing is a loss not only for Jharkhand but for the entire nation and the tribal movement. He persistently advocated for the underprivileged and tribal populations. The gap left by his departure will be challenging to fill. May God bestow peace upon his soul and fortitude for his family,” Yadav stated in his condolence message.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also conveyed his profound sadness. “Shibu Soren was a significant political figure, serving as Jharkhand’s Chief Minister three times. His impact on Jharkhand’s political and social landscape was substantial. His passing represents a considerable loss for the whole country. I pray for eternal peace for the departed soul and strength for his family and supporters,” Kumar shared on social media.

JDU leader and MLC Neeraj Kumar commemorated Soren as a “beacon of struggle and hope” for tribal communities throughout India.

“He championed those who were marginalized in society. A tribal leader reaching the pinnacle of Indian politics delivered a powerful message of empowerment. His passing is a profound loss for every citizen of this nation,” he remarked.