Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren has announced his intention to form a new political party amidst rising tensions within the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), the party he has long been associated with.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Soren confirmed that he has no plans to retire from politics and is considering the possibility of establishing a new political entity. He also left the door open for potential alliances in the future.
“I mentioned three options – retirement, forming a new organization, or joining hands with a friend. I will not retire; I will work to strengthen a new party, and if I find a good ally along the way, I will move forward with them,” Soren stated.
When questioned about the limited time available before the state elections, Soren responded, “That’s not your concern.”
He further added, “When 30,000-40,000 workers can come together in a single day, why would forming a new party be an issue? The party will be formed within a week.”
This decision follows what Soren described as “bitter humiliation” during his tenure as Jharkhand Chief Minister. He recently expressed dissatisfaction with the JMM leadership, particularly after his government programs were canceled without his consent.
“I kept silent because I wasn’t after power, but my self-respect was deeply wounded,” Soren shared on social media.
Soren also announced in a legislative party meeting that a “new chapter” in his life was beginning. He reiterated that he had considered three options: retiring from politics, forming a new party, or seeking an ally. All options remain open as he looks ahead to the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly elections.
Champai Soren assumed the role of Chief Minister on February 2, following the resignation and subsequent arrest of Hemant Soren in a money-laundering case. However, his tenure was short-lived, as Hemant Soren was released from jail and re-elected as the JMM’s legislature party leader on July 3, leading to Champai Soren’s resignation.
Amid speculation about joining the BJP, Champai Soren visited Delhi on Sunday. However, Jharkhand BJP Chief Babulal Marandi clarified that no discussions have yet taken place regarding Soren’s potential switch to the BJP.
“Champai Soren is an experienced politician who has been part of the Jharkhand movement. He will decide his own path,” Marandi stated.