Soren's continuance as CM challenged in SC

Former Jharkhand chief minister and Jharkhand Vikas Morcha Prajatantrik (JVM-P) president Babulal Marandi has moved a petition before the Suprement Court on Tuesday urging to restraint JMM supremo Shibu Soren from continuing as chief minister of Jharkhand without being member of the state Assembly.

Marandi in his petition referred Article 164(4) of the Constitution and said Shibu Soren by becoming chief minister of the state thrice without becoming a member of the state Assembly, is a blatant violation of the salient constitutional provision. Marandi said, “Soren has not only defrauded the Constitution but also the people of the state.” The petition further said that Soren was aiming to resign a few days before the expiry of his six-month tenure to become chief minister again under Article 164(4) against constitutional propriety and political morality.

The former CM has also contended that there is no vacancy in the legislative Assembly of Jharkhand and only 43 days are left for him to become a member of the Assembly. Marandi has mentioned in the petition that the Election Commission normally initiates the poll process at least 37 days in advance which is not possible under prevalent circumstances as neither any of his party legislator or from other parties are ready to vacate a seat for him.

Political observers have expressed doubt over the resignation of Shibu Soren on May 25 from the post of chief minister as per the deal done between JMM and the BJP to share the power by rotation for 28 months till the Jharkhand Assembly’s term is over in December 2014.

JMM sources said their leader (Soren) though agreed to the power-sharing deal with the BJP, desired to stay as CM till Hul Day celebration at Bhognadih in Sahebganj district of Santal Parganas on June 30.

It may be mentioned that the heroes of 1855 Santal insurgence, brothers Sido and Kanhu, had started hul (revolt) against the colonial rule from Bhognadih. The day is also important for Shibu Soren as he has to step down as chief minister if he fails to become an MLA in the state Assembly by June 30.