Should Shibu Soren Receive Bharat Ratna Instead of Padma Bhushan?
Synopsis
In a moment of national pride, Shibu Soren's sister calls for the Bharat Ratna, arguing that the late leader's lifelong commitment to Jharkhand and tribal rights makes him more deserving of the highest civilian honor than the Padma Bhushan.
Key Takeaways
Shibu Soren received the Padma Bhushan posthumously.
His sister advocates for the Bharat Ratna .
He dedicated his life to the rights of tribal communities.
Social activism runs in the Soren family.
There is growing support for his recognition as Bharat Ratna.
Saraikela (Jharkhand), Jan 27 (NationPress) A joyous atmosphere envelops Jharkhand following the Central Government's decision to bestow the Padma Bhushan upon the late tribal leader and former Chief Minister, Shibu Soren. However, his sister has voiced an appeal for him to be awarded the Bharat Ratna.
In response to the honour, Sukhi Tudu, Shibu Soren’s sister, expressed her gratitude towards the government's recognition but emphasized that his contributions extend far beyond the Padma Bhushan, asserting that he truly deserves the Bharat Ratna.
She stated, “It fills us with pride that Shibu Soren has been awarded the Padma Bhushan. Nonetheless, given his lifelong dedication to the people of Jharkhand and the tribal community, he is deserving of the nation’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna.”
Reflecting on their childhood, she recounted seeing her brother tirelessly engaged in social service, often traversing forests to raise awareness, unite communities, and combat the exploitation by moneylenders and the feudal system.
“Shibu Soren is not just a political figure; he embodies tribal identity and champions the causes of water, forests, land, and social justice,” she noted. Sukhi Tudu further mentioned that the residents of Jharkhand have long advocated for Dishom Guru (Shibu Soren) to receive the Bharat Ratna because his life exemplifies sacrifice, struggle, and dedicated service.
She also highlighted that social activism runs in their family, with their mother being an active participant in community service. Among the five siblings, Shibu Soren devoted the most effort to societal upliftment.
With the Padma Bhushan accolade, Shibu Soren’s legacy of struggle and contribution has once again captured national attention, leading to an increasingly vocal demand among his supporters for the Bharat Ratna.
Point of View
It's vital to acknowledge the sentiments expressed by Sukhi Tudu regarding Shibu Soren's significant contributions. While the Padma Bhushan is a prestigious accolade, the call for Bharat Ratna reflects the deep-rooted respect and admiration that many hold for Soren's legacy in Jharkhand and tribal advocacy.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Shibu Soren being recognized now?
Shibu Soren has been awarded the Padma Bhushan posthumously for his significant contributions to Jharkhand and the tribal community, bringing renewed attention to his legacy.
What does his sister want?
Sukhi Tudu, his sister, believes that Shibu Soren deserves the Bharat Ratna, the nation's highest civilian honor, for his lifelong dedication and contributions.
What impact did Shibu Soren have on Jharkhand?
Shibu Soren was instrumental in advocating for the rights of tribal communities and addressing critical issues like land and social justice.
How did Shibu Soren contribute to social service?
He dedicated his life to raising awareness, organizing communities, and fighting against exploitation by moneylenders.
What is the historical significance of the Bharat Ratna?
The Bharat Ratna is India's highest civilian award, given for exceptional service towards the advancement of art, literature, and science, and in recognition of public service.
