Political leaders across party lines united in grief on Monday following the death of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) founder and veteran tribal leader Shibu Soren, who passed away in Delhi at the age of 81. The former Chief Minister of Jharkhand was undergoing treatment at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and had been in a critical condition for several days.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, recalling Soren’s long-standing commitment to tribal rights and social justice. “Shri Shibu Soren Ji was a grassroots leader who rose through the ranks of public life with unwavering dedication to the people. He was particularly passionate about empowering tribal communities, the poor and downtrodden. Pained by his passing away,” Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter). He added that he had spoken with Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to offer personal condolences.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his sorrow, describing Soren as “one of the towering figures in Jharkhand politics who consistently championed the rights of the marginalized.” He added, “I had a long personal association with him. His passing is a significant loss to Indian public life.”
The emotional outpouring continued with RJD chief and former Bihar CM Lalu Prasad Yadav, who shared his memories of working with Soren. “He was a great leader of Dalits and tribals. His commitment to their welfare was unmatched. I feel a deep personal loss. May his soul rest in peace,” Yadav said.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut offered heartfelt tributes, highlighting Soren’s journey from a tribal state to national prominence. “For Jharkhand, he was no less than a god. His Rajya Sabha seat was next to mine, and I often inquired about his health. Two days ago, I was told he was unwell. Today, we’ve lost him. Uddhav Thackeray and our entire party bow in respect to his legacy,” Raut remarked.
As a mark of respect, Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi cancelled a scheduled press briefing. Party sources said the decision was taken to honor the memory of the JMM patriarch, whose political journey had crossed paths with many Congress stalwarts over the decades.
