Ailing Soren may project son for Jharkhand CM

RANCHI/BOKARO: So, who will be the Jharkhand chief minister ? This is the question haunting all major players, especially Congress which has almost made up its mind to form government. For a state that has seen six CMs in eight years, including Madhu Koda — allegedly involved in the 4,000-crore money laundering scam — the question is even more complex.

In steel city Bokaro on Wednesday, JMM chief Shibu Soren — the kingmaker — was fast asleep in his house while party workers celebrated on the streets. Soren has turned a recluse ever since the death of his son Durga . Given his age and illness, chances are that Soren could project his son Hemant, who won from Dumka, for CM’s post. However, a day before the results, Soren had reportedly told his supporters that he would become CM.

On Wenesday, he appeared a little circumspect. ‘‘ I’ll make my decision clear only after meeting with party workers tomorrow,’’ said Soren.

Ignoring a pre-poll alliance with RJD and JMM, Congress is likely to form government on crutches provided by JMM. Though RJD has already announced its support for secular parties, JMM is yet to do so even though its vote-bank , comprising Christians and Muslims, is strictly anti-NDA .

But Shibu Soren is no greehorn and has time and again negotiated for the top post. ‘‘ JMM will support Congress only if he is made chief minister ,’’ the party said on Wednesday.