Former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren Calls Arrest a "Black Chapter" in Indian Democracy, Raises Questions on Raj Bhavan's Role

Ranchi: In a dramatic address to the Jharkhand Assembly on Monday, former Chief Minister Hemant Soren termed his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) a "black chapter" in Indian democracy and raised concerns about the potential involvement of the Raj Bhavan (Governor's residence).

Soren, who was granted temporary release from custody to participate in a trust vote for the new Chief Minister, Champai Soren, called the January 31st arrest a "well-planned script" and a "dark night" for Indian democracy. He highlighted the unprecedented nature of an incumbent Chief Minister's arrest, stating, "I don't know of any precedence."

Soren, a leader of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), was arrested on money laundering charges linked to an alleged land scam. He was released on bail and stepped down as Chief Minister shortly after. The JMM then elected his brother, Champai Soren, as their new leader and Chief Minister.

Soren's address went beyond the immediate context of his arrest, expressing concern about the alleged mistreatment of marginalized communities in India. He stated, "I don't understand how they manage to nurse so much hatred against these sections," referring to scheduled castes, tribes, and minorities.

He further targeted the Governor, stating, "I have a feeling, that in making it (his arrest) happen, Raj Bhavan was also involved in some way or the other." This raises serious questions about the potential interference of the Governor's office in the legal process.

Despite his arrest, Soren declared his unwavering spirit and commitment to his people. He asserted, "I have not accepted defeat. If they think they can fulfil their designs by keeping me behind bars, they should know that Jharkhand is a state where in every nook and corner people of scheduled castes and tribes had fought for India's independence."

Soren also acknowledged limitations in his understanding of legal complexities due to his tribal background. He stated, "There are some gaps in my understanding of rules and regulations and the law." However, he emphasized the planned nature of his arrest, claiming, "They have taken me in their custody in a planned way since 2022."

Soren's address concluded with a stark warning, referencing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's conversion to Buddhism due to discrimination faced by Dalits. He cautioned, "The way things are panning out in the country, the tribals and scheduled castes may be forced to think along similar lines."