Former Jharkhand state Chief Minister Champai Soren’s departure from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) follows a predictable pattern.
He was a reliable subordinate chosen by party supremo Hemant Soren as his replacement during his absence. The act of high trust, or political gamble, quickly devolved into a mismatch of expectations for loyalty and rewards on both sides. Champai, a veteran of tribal mobilization in Jharkhand, has always played second fiddle to Shibu Soren and his son Hemant Soren, the state’s past and present Chief Ministers.
After Hemant resigned as Chief Minister on January 31, 2024, just before being arrested by the Enforcement Directorate for corruption, Champai took over the position. Hemant’s decision to chose a party veteran over a family member was brave and admirable, but it may not have lasted long. Hemant, who was released on bail by the High Court in June after nearly five months in jail, was eager to return to the saddle. Champai regarded his expulsion harsh and embarrassing.
For the first time, he wielded power as CEO and wanted his leader to treat him with respect.
The JMM, like most Indian parties, is controlled by a single leader or family, leaving little room for individual leaders to pursue their own objectives. Champai has played the game for a long time, but as Chief Minister, he believes a tipping point has been reached. External circumstances may have influenced his decision. Hemant accused Champai of “bitter humiliation” and suggested that she was being swayed by the Bharatiya Janata Party. The BJP is vying for a political comeback in Jharkhand, where elections are scheduled soon.
The strategy is to divide the tribal vote and win support from non-tribal voters, while creating hostility against Muslims among tribal communities. The BJP claims that its absence has led to unregulated changes in the state’s demography. The JMM has questioned the BJP’s decision to delay the 2021 Census, placing the responsibility of detecting “intruders” on the Centre. Champai may form his own party or join the BJP, but his plans are not yet clear. His role in the Assembly elections will undoubtedly benefit the BJP.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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