Shibu Soren, often referred to as “Guruji”, was a prominent Indian tribal leader and politician from Jharkhand.
He was a founding figure in the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and played a pivotal role in the movement that
led to the creation of the state of Jharkhand in 2000. He served as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand multiple times
and was also a Union Cabinet Minister for Coal.
Shibu Soren – Early Life
- Date of Birth: January 11, 1944
- Place: Nemra village, Ramgarh district, Bihar (now in Jharkhand)
- Father: Sobran Soren (killed by moneylenders when Shibu was just 6 years old)
- Community: Santhal tribal community
Shibu Soren grew up witnessing the exploitation of tribals and farmers, which deeply influenced his political ideology.
He left school early and began organizing movements against land grabbing and exploitation of tribal people.
Shibu Soren – Political Career
Formation of JMM & Tribal Upliftment
- 1972: Founded Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) to fight for the rights of tribals and demand a separate state.
- Mobilized thousands of tribal people to protest against landlords, exploiters, and the administration.
Role in National Politics
- Lok Sabha MP: Elected multiple times from Dumka constituency (1980, 1989, 1991, 1996, 2002, 2004, 2009).
- Union Minister: Held portfolios in the coal and labor ministries in the UPA government.
- Chief Minister of Jharkhand:
- First Term: March 2005 – March 2005 (resigned after 10 days)
- Second Term: August 2008 – January 2009
- Third Term: December 2009 – May 2010
Controversies
He was briefly jailed in a murder case (Shashinath Jha case), but was later acquitted in 2007.
Known for both his mass tribal following and the controversies that surrounded his political decisions.
Shibu Soren – Personal Life
- Wife: Roopi Soren
- Children:
- Hemant Soren – Current Chief Minister of Jharkhand (as of 2025)
- Other sons and daughters remain mostly out of the political limelight
Despite his rural roots and humble lifestyle, his family has become one of the most powerful political dynasties in Jharkhand.
Shibu Soren – Death
Shibu Soren passed away on 4 August 2025 at the age of 81 in Delhi, India at a Sir Ganga Ram hospital in Delhi.
Family Statement
“Guruji was not just our father but the father figure for the entire Jharkhandi people. His life was dedicated to
the upliftment of the tribal community and to the dream of a separate Jharkhand. We mourn his loss but vow to continue his mission.”
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