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Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has found himself at the center of a major political controversy following his recent visit to Assam. While addressing a student organization’s event, Soren made a series of sharp remarks targeting the Election Commission (EC), the Raj Bhavan (Governor's House), and the Central Government.
The speech has not sat well with the opposition in Jharkhand, leading to a heated exchange of allegations.
The Allegations: Crossing the Line of Decency
The Leader of the Opposition in the Jharkhand Assembly and former CM, Babulal Marandi, was quick to condemn the speech. Marandi alleged that Soren has "crossed all limits of dignity and decency" by attacking constitutional institutions.
Marandi pointed out the irony, stating that while the CM relies on the Constitution to hold his office, he is simultaneously questioning the authority of the Election Commission, which is empowered by that very same Constitution.
Insulting Tribal Icons?
One of the most sensitive parts of the controversy involves the legacy of tribal heroes. The opposition has accused Soren of disrespecting legendary figures like Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Sidhu-Kanhu by placing his father, Shibu Soren, on the same pedestal. They claim this is an attempt to "tamper with history" for political gain.
Governor’s House and the ED Case
The speech also touched upon Soren’s past friction with the Raj Bhavan. The opposition retaliated by reminding the public that it was the CM himself who had ignored multiple ED notices regarding a land scam. They clarified that the Raj Bhavan did not "summon" him, but rather he sought refuge there at midnight to avoid a potential arrest.
Focus on Scholarship and Corruption
Beyond the rhetoric, Marandi shifted the focus to local issues, accusing the CM of ignoring the plight of thousands of Jharkhand students who are being deprived of their scholarships. He further highlighted ongoing investigations into the Ranchi land scam, the Sahibganj mining scandal, and alleged irregularities in the energy department.
The Challenge
Dismissing Soren’s claims of "voter theft," the opposition challenged the CM to prove his faith in democracy by conducting urban local body elections based on the latest voter lists, rather than excluding new voters.
As the political mercury rises, this "Assam episode" has given the opposition fresh ammunition to target the JMM-led government ahead of upcoming electoral battles.
Read More: Political Uproar Hemant Soren’s Assam Speech Triggers Fierce Backlash from Opposition
