Jharkhand Governor Calls on JMM's Champai Soren to Lead Government, Swearing-In Today: Champai Soren, a prominent figure in the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) party, is set to become the Chief Minister of Jharkhand today, a significant move amid the state's political uncertainties. According to officials, the swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for around 12:15 pm at the Durbar Hall of the Raj Bhavan. This development follows the recent arrest of former Chief Minister Hemant Soren, also a JMM leader, in connection with an alleged land scam case.
Here are the highlights:
The invitation for Champai Soren to assume the role of Chief Minister comes after Jharkhand Governor CP Radhakrishnan extended the offer on February 1st. Soren, along with 43 legislators, presented his claim to form the government to the Governor at Raj Bhavan.
The nomination occurred shortly after Soren urged the Governor to expedite the process due to the prevailing confusion following Hemant Soren's resignation. The new Chief Minister will be required to prove his majority in a floor test within the next 10 days.
Governor's Principal Secretary Nitin Madan Kulkarni confirmed the invitation, stating, "We have invited him to take the oath. Now they will decide when to take the oath."
Congress leader Rajesh Thakur stated that Soren has been granted 10 days to demonstrate his government's majority. He assured that the oath-taking ceremony will be conducted before noon on Friday to coincide with Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra entering the state.
Currently, the ruling alliance comprising JMM, Congress, and RJD holds at least 46 out of 81 assembly seats. The Jharkhand Assembly's official website lists the distribution of seats among various parties.
Following the meeting with the Governor, Soren expressed confidence in garnering support, stating, "Currently, we have submitted the report with 43 MLAs in our support. We expect that the number will reach 46-47 so there is no problem. Our 'gathbandhan' is very strong."
Amid escalating tensions, Congress leaders criticized the BJP, accusing it of undermining democratic mandates across states. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra highlighted the delay in extending the invitation to form a government in Jharkhand compared to Bihar's swift response.
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge also denounced the Governor's delay, emphasizing the support Champai Soren has among the MLAs and calling it a disrespect to the Constitution.
Champai Soren, a key figure in the Jharkhand movement, hails from a farming background and is recognized for his contributions. He is the eldest son of Simal Soren and has earned the moniker 'Jharkhand Tiger.'
BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad alleged further involvement of former Chief Minister Hemant Soren in additional cases, citing recoveries made during investigations.
These developments mark a crucial phase in Jharkhand's political landscape, with Champai Soren poised to lead the state amid ongoing challenges.
Hemant Soren to Spend Night in Jail, Court Reserves Order on ED's Custody Demand
Discord in CM Soren's family over claim to CM post, this man may be a claimant not wife