The death of former Chief Minister and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) founder Shibu Soren has cast a shadow over Independence Day celebrations in the state this year. Soren, a towering figure in the separate Jharkhand movement and a serving Rajya Sabha member, passed away recently, prompting changes in the traditional programme.
In a departure from convention, Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar will hoist the national flag at the historic Morhabadi ground in Ranchi, a role usually performed by the state’s Chief Minister.
Similarly, in the sub-capital Dumka, where the Governor traditionally leads the Independence Day ceremony, Santhal Pargana Commissioner will take the salute instead.
The customary “At Home” reception at Raj Bhawan, hosted after the flag hoisting, has also been cancelled this year as a mark of respect to the departed leader.
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Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who is also Shibu Soren’s son, will be absent from the official events as he is occupied with his father’s last rites at their native village, Nemra, in Ramgarh district.
According to sources, the rituals will continue until August 16, preventing him from attending any of the Independence Day programmes.
Shibu Soren, affectionately called ‘Guruji’, was one of the most influential leaders in Jharkhand’s political history. His contributions to the creation of the state and his decades-long political career have left a lasting legacy.
This year’s subdued celebrations reflect the deep mourning across Jharkhand for the man who shaped its political identity.
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