PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Oct 15: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) on Wednesday officially announced Somesh Soren as its candidate for the upcoming Ghatshila Assembly by-election, ending days of speculation within the party ranks.
The decision was taken during a crucial meeting of the JMM’s Central Committee held in Ranchi, chaired by party working president Hemant Soren.
According to party insiders, Somesh Soren, a young leader with a strong grassroots presence in East Singhbhum district, was chosen after detailed consultations with local units and senior leaders.
The party hopes that Somesh’s image as a clean and dynamic leader will help consolidate tribal and rural votes in the constituency, which has been a traditional JMM stronghold.
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The Ghatshila seat fell vacant following death of senior JMM leader and minister Ramdas Soren.
Somesh, son of Late Ramdas Soren emerged as a strong contender for the by-poll.
In his first reaction after receiving the nomination, Somesh Soren thanked the party leadership and pledged to “Carry forward the legacy of Shibu Soren’s movement for Jharkhand’s identity and justice.”
He said, “Ghatshila has always stood with JMM in our struggle for people’s rights. I will work to strengthen the bond between the people and the party.”
Party sources said the meeting also reviewed the organizational preparedness and campaign strategy for the bypoll.
Senior leaders, including Champai Soren, Basant Soren, and Stephen Marandi, were present during the deliberations.
The JMM plans to launch a series of public meetings across the constituency starting next week.
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The by-election is likely to see a keen contest between JMM and BJP, which has already named Babulal Soren as its candidate earlier today.
Political observers say the Ghatshila battle will serve as a barometer of public sentiment.
With both major regional forces putting forward prominent tribal faces, the bypoll is expected to witness a high-decibel campaign centered on local development, employment, and tribal rights.
The Ghatshila by-poll is scheduled on November 11.
