Ranchi, August 4, 2025 — Shibu Soren, founder of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, passed away on August 4 at the age of 81 after a prolonged illness. His death was confirmed by his son, current Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
In a statement, Hemant Soren said, “Respected Dishom Guruji has left us all. Today, I feel completely empty.”
Born in 1944 in Nemra village in present-day Jharkhand, Shibu Soren was a prominent leader in the movement for a separate Jharkhand state. He co-founded the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha in 1972 to advocate for the rights of tribal and indigenous communities.
Soren served as Chief Minister of Jharkhand three times — briefly in 2005, and again from 2008–2009 and 2009–2010. He was elected to the Lok Sabha eight times from the Dumka constituency and also held ministerial positions at the central level, including as Union Minister for Coal.
Commonly referred to as “Dishom Guru” (leader of the land), Soren was widely recognized for his work in championing tribal issues and for playing a significant role in the creation of Jharkhand as a separate state in 2000.
His political career spanned several decades and was marked by both achievements and controversies. Nonetheless, he remained a significant figure in Jharkhand’s political landscape until his death.
Leaders across party lines have expressed condolences following the news of his passing. A state funeral is expected to be held in Ranchi.
Shibu Soren is survived by his wife, three sons, and other family members.
