Former Chief Minister of Jharkhand and founder of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Shibu Soren, also known as Guruji, passed away this morning (August 4) at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi. He breathed his last at the age of 81. He had been undergoing treatment under the supervision of specialists for the past few days. He had been suffering from kidney disease for some time and was on dialysis. It is reported that he had previously undergone bypass surgery. Due to deteriorating health, he was admitted to the hospital.
Born on January 11, 1944, in the village of Nemra in Ramgarh district, Jharkhand, Shibu Soren's childhood was filled with struggles. At the mere age of 13, he halted his education to fight for the rights of tribal farmers. Later, he founded the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha. Shibu Soren served as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand three times. He first became Chief Minister in March 2005, but resigned after 10 days due to failing to prove a majority. The second time was in August 2008, but he had to contest a by-election as he was not an MLA. He lost in the Tamar constituency, forcing him to resign again. The third time was in December 2009, but he resigned in May 2010.
The demise of Shibu Soren has created a significant void in Jharkhand's politics and the leadership of the tribal community. Leaders from various parties and social activists have expressed their condolences on his passing.