Champai Soren vows to forge alliance with 'like-minded people', says open to forming new political party ahead of Jharkhand polls

Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren announced on Wednesday that he is willing to start a new political party ahead of the upcoming polls in Jharkhand.

“I had mentioned three options earlier, that of a friend, the prospect of retirement and an organisation. I will not retire. We may form a new party, forge a new alliance and if I meet new people, I shall forge a new friendship, too…,” he said.

When asked about forming a new party, Soren stated that he might form a new political party, if need be. Further, he reiterated that he will not be retiring from politics.



Soren expressed his confidence in starting a new political journey, even as elections in Jharkhand are scheduled to be held later this year.

"I can make a new party, and if I meet a friend, I am open to the formation of an alliance too," the former Jharkhand state head told reporters.

The 67-year-old tribal leader is often known as "Jharkhand's Tiger" for his role in the fight to create a new state in 1990s. Notably, Jharkhand was established from southern Bihar in 2000.

"No one from JMM contacted me. This is the land of Jharkhand...I have struggled since my student life. I participated in the agitation for a separate Jharkhand state under the leadership of party supremo Shibu Soren," Champai Soren said.

He hinted at possible alliances with like-minded groups, stating, "I posted what I felt was proper. The entire country is aware of what I thought," referring to his X post from August 18.

Amid rumours he might join the BJP, Soren mentioned feeling "bitter humiliation" as chief minister, which pushed him to explore other options. He claimed that the JMM leadership abruptly canceled his government programs in early July without informing him.