On August 4, 2025, the Rajya Sabha adjourned its session as a mark of respect following the death of Shibu Soren, a sitting member of Parliament, former Jharkhand Chief Minister, and one of India’s most prominent tribal leaders. The news of his death was announced by Deputy Chairman Harivansh immediately after the House convened for the day, following which the members observed a minute’s silence to honour his memory.

Shibu Soren, affectionately called Guruji by supporters and colleagues, was widely known for his tireless advocacy for tribal rights, empowerment of the marginalised, and contribution to the Jharkhand movement. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian politics, particularly in Jharkhand’s regional and tribal affairs.

A Lifetime Dedicated to Tribal Empowerment

Born on January 11, 1944, in Nemra village (present-day Ramgarh district of Jharkhand), Shibu Soren hailed from the Santhal tribal community. He founded the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)—a party central to the demand for a separate tribal state of Jharkhand. The JMM played a key role in mobilising grassroots tribal communities and bringing their issues into national focus.

Soren’s political journey spanned five terms as Lok Sabha MP, multiple stints as a Union Minister, and three terms as Chief Minister of Jharkhand between 2005 and 2010. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha in June 2020, and remained an active Parliamentarian until his death.

Deputy Chairman Harivansh noted in his address:

In his death, the country has lost an experienced parliamentarian, a strong advocate for tribal rights, and an extremely honoured public representative.

Political Journey and National Contributions

Soren’s impact on Indian democracy and regional governance was substantial. He served as Union Minister for Coal under former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh during 2004–05 and again in 2006. His work in the coal ministry was aimed at increasing tribal employment and environmental reforms in mining areas.

He led coalition governments in Jharkhand, navigating complex political equations in a newly-formed state. His tenure saw efforts to boost tribal welfare, forest rights, rural employment, and regional identity.

Over the years, Soren was also known for:

• Advocating implementation of the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution

• Pushing for greater autonomy for Scheduled Areas

• Supporting anti-displacement movements and land protection laws

Parliament Pays Homage, Monsoon Session Paused

After announcing his death in the Rajya Sabha, Deputy Chairman Harivansh led the House in observing silence for one minute, and then adjourned proceedings for the entire day. This practice is followed to pay respect to sitting members or former dignitaries who played a significant role in the Indian polity.

The Parliament Monsoon Session, which resumed earlier in the day, was scheduled to take up critical legislative business. However, as a matter of tradition and respect, the session was deferred to August 5, 2025.

Condolences from Across the Political Spectrum

Leaders from all major parties extended their condolences and tributes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post, said:

Shibu Soren ji was a towering leader of the tribal community, a grassroots icon, and a respected voice in Indian democracy. His contributions will not be forgotten.

President Droupadi Murmu, herself from a tribal background, shared her grief, stating that the country has lost a guardian of tribal identity and dignity.

Other senior leaders, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, BJP’s JP Nadda, and Trinamool Congress’s Mamata Banerjee, all highlighted Soren’s role in strengthening parliamentary democracy and his unwavering commitment to tribal welfare.

Jharkhand Assembly Also Adjourns Sine Die

The Jharkhand Assembly, where Shibu Soren had served multiple times and helped shape its early political direction, was adjourned sine die as a tribute to his demise. Several MLAs paid emotional tributes, recalling his simple lifestyle, deep connection with villagers, and his resistance to corporate land grabs.

Hemant Soren, current Jharkhand Chief Minister and Shibu Soren’s son, said:

My father lived not just for his family, but for every tribal child, every displaced family, and every marginalised voice in the country.

Legacy of Guruji: A Voice for the Forgotten

Shibu Soren’s life and work symbolised the struggles and aspirations of India’s tribal population. He was imprisoned multiple times during the Jharkhand agitation, but his resolve never wavered. Despite controversies, his dedication to the tribal cause remained unquestioned.

His personal integrity, rustic charm, and ability to mobilise mass movements earned him loyalty and admiration that transcended party lines. Even critics acknowledged his contribution to securing a separate state for Jharkhand in 2000.

Conclusion: End of an Era in Tribal Politics

With the passing of Shibu Soren, India has lost one of its last remaining stalwarts of the tribal rights movement. His death is not just a loss for Jharkhand but for the entire democratic and social justice framework of the country.

As Parliament and the public pay their respects, Guruji’s legacy lives on—through the policies he shaped, the movements he led, and the communities he inspired. His journey will continue to serve as a beacon for grassroots political leadership in India.

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