Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: The results of the Jharkhand Assembly elections will be announced on Saturday, putting the fate of 81 constituencies in the hands of voters. Among the candidates, six former Chief Ministers of Jharkhand, including current CM Hemant Soren, find their political reputations and future on the line.
A Night of Anticipation and Tension
The intense competition in this election has heightened anticipation among candidates and their supporters. While some have turned to religious rituals, others are strategizing until the last moment. For Jharkhand, which has seen seven CMs in its 24-year history, this election could redefine the political landscape.
The Stakes for Former Chief Ministers
Champai Soren:
Former CM Champai Soren, now contesting on a BJP ticket from Seraikela, faces a fierce battle against his 2019 rival, Ganesh Mahli of the JMM. Soren’s switch from JMM to BJP adds intrigue to his political journey, with his son Babula Soren also contesting from Ghatshila on a BJP ticket.
Babulal Marandi:
Jharkhand’s first CM and BJP state president, Babulal Marandi, contests from Dhanwar, where he faces stiff competition from JMM and CPI(ML) candidates. For Marandi, this election is a chance to reclaim his influence and strengthen BJP’s position in the state.
Shibu Soren:
Although retired from active politics, JMM patriarch Shibu Soren’s influence looms large. His family has multiple stakes in this election, with son Hemant contesting from Barhait, daughter-in-law Kalpana from Gandey, and younger son Basant from Dumka.
Arjun Munda:
Former CM Arjun Munda is relying on his wife, Meera Munda, contesting from Potka on a BJP ticket. The contest against JMM’s Sanjeev Sardar is seen as a test of Munda’s political clout in Jharkhand.
Raghubar Das:
Former full-term CM Raghubar Das backs his daughter-in-law, Purnima Sahu, who is contesting from Jamshedpur East on a BJP ticket. After Das’s loss in 2019, this election is pivotal for the family’s political legacy.
Madhu Koda:
Ex-CM Madhu Koda supports his wife, Geeta Koda, contesting from Jagannathpur against JMM incumbent Sonaram Sinku. For the Koda family, this election is a make-or-break moment.
