Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren Goes Missing, BJP Cries Foul

The BJP in Jharkhand has alleged that Chief Minister Hemant Soren has been missing for the past 18 hours, fearing action from the Enforcement Directorate. The party has urged the Governor to take note of the situation, calling it a constitutional crisis.

The Jharkhand unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has raised an alarm over the alleged disappearance of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, claiming that he has been "absconding" for the past 18 hours to evade action by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

BJP's Allegations and Concerns

Jharkhand BJP president Babulal Marandi took to social media to express his concerns, stating that according to media sources, Soren fled his Delhi residence late at night, wearing slippers and covering his face with a sheet. Marandi also highlighted that Ajay Singh, a security personnel from the special branch who accompanied Soren to Delhi, is also missing. He emphasized that the mobile phones of both individuals have been switched off, leading to a search by the ED and Delhi Police.

Marandi expressed grave concerns about the situation, stating that if the news is true, it could lead to a "constitutional crisis" in Jharkhand. He urged Governor C P Radhakrishnan to take immediate cognizance of the matter and address the credibility and reputation of the state.

ED's Investigation and Soren's Response

The ED's involvement stems from a money laundering investigation related to an alleged land fraud case. The agency had previously questioned Soren at his official residence in Ranchi on January 20 and issued fresh summons, requesting his confirmation for further questioning on either January 29 or January 31. However, official sources claim that Soren could not be contacted and was reported missing.

In response, Soren, who left for Delhi from Ranchi on January 27, sent an email to the ED agreeing to a fresh round of questioning on January 31 at his Ranchi residence at around 1 pm.

JMM's Reaction and Allegations of Unconstitutional Action

The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), the party led by Soren, has condemned the ED's actions as "unconstitutional." JMM general secretary and spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya asserted that Soren had gone to Delhi for personal reasons and would return shortly. He dismissed the ED's actions as politically motivated and claimed that Soren had no involvement in the case.

In response to the ED's actions, several JMM legislators gathered at Soren's residence in Ranchi to discuss a strategy for future action. The MLAs were also asked to assemble for another meeting on Tuesday.

Governor's Response and Allegations of Conspiracy

While the Chief Minister's Office remained tight-lipped about the developments, Governor C P Radhakrishnan stated that he was closely monitoring the situation in the state following the ED's summons to Soren.

Jharkhand Congress president Rajesh Thakur, whose party is part of the JMM-led ruling alliance, alleged that confusion was being created around Soren's location as part of a "well-designed conspiracy." Thakur accused certain individuals of spreading rumors about the Chief Minister's disappearance and attempting to create a perception that President's rule would be imposed in the state. He asserted that the ED's actions were part of a conspiracy to destabilize the state government and prevent it from carrying out its welfare work.

Conclusion

The ongoing situation surrounding Chief Minister Hemant Soren's absence and the ED's investigation has created political turmoil in Jharkhand. The BJP's allegations, JMM's defense, and the Governor's response highlight the complexities of the matter. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring transparency, upholding the rule of law, and maintaining the stability of the state.