Jharkhand CM Soren Surprisingly Holds Meeting, Agrees to Record Statement Amid ED Inquiry
Ranchi, 30th January 2024: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren responded to speculation about his whereabouts amid an Enforcement Directorate (ED) inquiry, stating, “I reside in the hearts of the people.” This statement followed the ED’s attempt to question him at his Delhi residence in connection with a money laundering probe related to an alleged land scam.
Speculation arose when reports suggested Soren was “untraceable” during the ED’s inquiry. However, he later appeared in Ranchi and chaired a meeting with ruling alliance MLAs, including his wife Kalpana. Soren accused the ED of having a politically motivated agenda to disrupt his government and criticized the timing of the questioning.
In a letter to the ED’s Ranchi office, Soren expressed concerns about the timing of the inquiry, alleging malice and an attempt to hinder his official duties during the upcoming Budget Session. He maintained that the ED’s actions were politically motivated, aiming to destabilize his government.
During a visit to Bapu Vatika, Hemant Soren emphasized his commitment to Mahatma Gandhi’s ideologies. Despite the controversy surrounding the ED’s inquiry, he reiterated his dedication to the principles advocated by Gandhi.
Upon returning to Ranchi from New Delhi, Soren convened a meeting with legislators to discuss the current political situation and the ED’s actions. Despite the controversy, he agreed to record his statement on January 31 at his residence in connection with the money laundering case.
The ED had previously searched Soren’s Delhi residence, seizing cash, an SUV, and purportedly incriminating documents. The ongoing investigation has added a layer of political tension in Jharkhand, with discussions around a potential leadership change in the state.
