Why Champai Soren is Joining BJP? Former JMM Leader Breaks Silence

Ranchi, Jharkhand: In a big political development, former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren on Friday announced his decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Soren, who has been a staunch advocate for the rights of the Adivasi community in Jharkhand, declared that his move to BJP would boost his efforts to fight for the state and its indigenous people.

"We got strength. Today, I am joining BJP," Soren stated, stressing on his commitment to continue his battle for Jharkhand's Adivasi community. "My fight for Jharkhand is not over. This is a burning issue regarding the safety of Adivasis. My state is rich, and I will care for it very well. BJP will enable me to do it better."

The decision marks a turning point for Soren, who had earlier considered 'retiring from active politics'. "The party which we made, we made it after a lot of hard work. That's why I am emotional today," he said, reflecting on his journey with Jharkhand Mukhti Morcha (JMM).

“Earlier, I thought I would retire, but today I am going to join BJP”, Soren added. 

Soren expressed deep concern for the tribal society in Jharkhand, which he believes is currently facing significant challenges. "Tribal society in Jharkhand is in trouble. We could have stopped Bangladeshi infiltration, and now we will protest for this," he added, signaling his intent to take a firm stand on issues affecting the state's indigenous population.

The veteran politician had earlier said he experienced “bitter humiliation” as chief minister, which compelled him to seek an alternative path. He alleged that all his government programmes in the first week of July were abruptly cancelled by the party leadership without his knowledge.

The JMM leader had said he was left with three options – quit politics, float a party or join hands with a like-minded outfit.

Champai Soren had assumed office as the 12th chief minister of Jharkhand on February 2, shortly after his predecessor Hemant Soren resigned just before being arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case.  

The 67-year-old tribal leader earned the nickname ‘Jharkhand’s Tiger’ for his contribution to the fight to create a separate state in the 1990s. Jharkhand was carved out of the southern part of Bihar in 2000.