Shibu Soren, a towering figure in Indian politics and a prominent tribal leader who played a pivotal role in the creation and development of Jharkhand, passed away on Monday at the age of 81. Affectionately known as “Guruji” among his supporters and party workers, Shibu Soren had been battling a prolonged illness and was on life support in the final days of his life.
The news of his death was confirmed by his son, Hemant Soren, the current Chief Minister of Jharkhand. In an emotional message posted on social media platform (formerly Twitter), Hemant Soren wrote, “Respected Guru Dishom has left us all. Today, I have become a zero…” The tribute reflected the deep personal loss felt by the son, who has long considered his father both a mentor and guiding force in his political journey.
Shibu Soren breathed his last at 8:56 am on Monday, according to a statement issued by Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, where he had been undergoing treatment. He had been suffering from a serious kidney ailment and had been placed on life support after suffering a stroke nearly a month ago. His condition had deteriorated in recent weeks, despite the best efforts of a multidisciplinary medical team.
The veteran leader was under the care of Dr. A.K. Bhalla, Chairman of Nephrology at the hospital, alongside specialists from the Neurology and ICU departments. He had been receiving regular medical attention for a prolonged period. On June 24, Chief Minister Hemant Soren had visited the hospital following his father’s admission, stating that his health condition was under close observation and that he was being provided the best possible care.
Born on January 11, 1944, Shibu Soren was a stalwart of tribal rights advocacy and grassroots political mobilization. As the founder and president of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Soren was a central figure in the movement for the separate statehood of Jharkhand, which was carved out of Bihar in 2000. He led the JMM for more than 38 years, shaping it into a formidable political force in eastern India.
Soren served as Chief Minister of Jharkhand on three separate occasions and was also a Member of Parliament for several terms. He briefly held the Union Coal Ministry portfolio in the central government, further solidifying his influence on national politics. Known for his simplicity, deep connection with the tribal communities, and firm belief in social justice, Soren earned the unwavering loyalty of many in Jharkhand and beyond.
Political leaders from across the spectrum mourned Shibu Soren death and offered condolences to the Soren family and the people of Jharkhand. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut remembered Soren as a pioneering figure who brought the voice of tribal India into the national political arena.
“We always think of Shibu Soren. Coming from a tribal state, that person joined national politics,” Raut said. “For the people of Jharkhand, he was no less than a god.” Recalling his interactions with Soren in Parliament, Raut shared, “His seat was right next to mine in the Rajya Sabha. I used to regularly inquire about his health from his party MPs.
Just two days ago, I was told he wasn’t doing well, and today he has passed away. Uddhav Thackeray and the entire Shiv Sena family pay heartfelt tribute to him. He gave his life to the welfare of the tribal population of his state.”
“Shibu Soren’s Legacy: A Champion of Tribal Rights and Architect of Jharkhand’s Identity”
Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Supriya Sule also expressed grief over Soren’s passing. “Deeply saddened by the demise of former Chief Minister of Jharkhand Shri Shibu Soren ji,” Sule wrote in a condolence message. “His lifelong dedication to the rights and welfare of the people of Jharkhand and tribals will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with Chief Minister Hemant Soren ji, the Soren family, and his followers during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences.”
Throughout his political career, Soren championed the cause of marginalized communities, especially the Adivasis (indigenous people) of Jharkhand. His leadership style was deeply rooted in empathy, cultural pride, and the aspiration for tribal empowerment through political agency. Despite facing legal and political controversies during his long public life, including brief stints of imprisonment, Soren remained a revered figure in Jharkhand politics until his final days.
His legacy includes not only the successful campaign for statehood but also a generation of political leaders—chief among them, his son Hemant—who continue to carry forward his mission. Under his guidance, the JMM grew from a regional pressure group into a ruling party with a significant say in Jharkhand’s political landscape.
As the state mourns the loss of one of its founding architects, preparations are underway for a state funeral, with dignitaries expected to arrive in Ranchi to pay their last respects. Tributes are pouring in from citizens, party workers, political allies, and adversaries alike, all united in grief over the demise of a man whose life was deeply intertwined with the identity and aspirations of Jharkhand.
Shibu Soren’s death marks the end of an era in Indian regional politics, especially in the tribal belt. Yet, his ideals, struggle, and commitment to the upliftment of indigenous communities will continue to inspire generations to come.
