New chapter starts from today: Champai Soren breaks silence on party switch speculations

New Delhi: Former Jharkhand Chief Minister and JMM leader Champai Soren has addressed the ongoing rumors about his potential party switch. In a recent post on X, he expressed, "After enduring significant disrespect and disregard, I was compelled to seek an alternative path. With a heavy heart, I announced during the legislative party meeting that 'A new chapter of my life begins today.' I had three options before me: first, to retire from politics; second, to establish my own organization; and third, to continue my journey with a new ally if one is found. From that day until now, and up to the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly elections, all options remain open for me."

Earlier in the day, Senior Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Champai Soren arrived in Delhi early Sunday, fueling speculation about his potential defection to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, Soren quickly dismissed these rumors, stating that his visit to the capital was purely for personal reasons. Addressing the swirling rumors, Soren clarified, "I have come here for my personal work. Abhi hum jahan par hain vahi par hain (I am here only)." He further explained that his primary reason for being in Delhi was to visit his daughter, not to engage in any political discussions.

Accompanied by MLAs? JMM denies

As Soren made his way to Delhi, reports emerged suggesting that he was accompanied by six JMM MLAs, with speculation mounting that he was considering a switch to the BJP. The JMM, however, was quick to dismiss these claims as "mere rumors." JMM spokesperson Manoj Pandey went as far as to call the BJP a "sinking ship," asserting that Soren would never consider joining it.

Soren’s relationship with JMM

Champai Soren, known for his close ties to the Soren family, briefly served as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand after Hemant Soren's arrest by the Enforcement Directorate on January 31 in connection with an alleged land scam. However, he stepped down on July 3 following Hemant Soren’s bail, leading to speculation about his dissatisfaction with his abrupt removal from the top post.

Unconfirmed reports of BJP contacts

Despite Soren's denials, sources suggest that he has been in touch with several top BJP leaders. Reports indicate that he met Bengal BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in Kolkata last night and has been in continuous contact with Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Additionally, there are unverified claims that the JMM has been unable to reach the six MLAs who were reportedly with Soren on his trip to Delhi.

In response to the ongoing rumors, Soren reiterated his stance on Saturday, stating, "I don't know what rumors are being spread. I don't know what news is being run, so I cannot tell whether it's true or not. I don't know anything about it...Hum jahan par hain vahi par hain (I am here only)."