Hemant Soren likely to become Jharkhand Chief Minister, INDIA front holds key discussions

NEW DELHI: The INDIA front has entered government formation talks following its decisive victory in the Jharkhand assembly elections. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Hemant Soren is poised to retain the Chief Minister’s post, with the coalition of JMM, Congress and RJD securing 56 seats in the 81-member assembly.

Hemant Soren, hailed as the main architect of the alliance's victory, won a historic third consecutive term, making him the first Chief Minister in the state to achieve this milestone. His wife, Kalpana Soren and younger brother, Basant Soren, also emerged victorious in their respective constituencies.

The INDIA front has scheduled discussions in Ranchi today to finalize the allocation of portfolios among coalition partners. Once an agreement is reached, the alliance plans to meet the Governor and formally stake its claim to form the government. Before the ministry is formed, Hemant Soren is expected to visit Delhi for consultations with top INDIA front leaders.

The alliance, comprising the JMM (34 seats), Congress (16 seats) and RJD (4 seats), maintained its dominance against the BJP alliance, which managed only 24 seats. Soren’s leadership and his party’s grassroots appeal, particularly among tribal communities, played a pivotal role in the victory.

Hemant Soren’s landslide victory came despite significant challenges, including investigations by the ED and CBI and the BJP’s attempts to create turmoil within his ranks. However, the people of Jharkhand stood firmly with the JMM-led coalition, reflecting their trust in Soren’s leadership and his commitment to addressing tribal and marginalized community concerns.

The turnout for this election was a record 67.74%, the highest since the formation of Jharkhand state in 2000. Key regions such as Chotanagpur, Kolhan, Koylanchal, Palamu and Santhal Pargana strongly supported the INDIA alliance, ensuring a clear mandate. Over 200 rallies were organized by Soren and his wife Kalpana during the campaign period.