Governor Gangwar to Lead Independence Day Celebrations at Morabadi

Ranchi: Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar will hoist the national flag at the state-level Independence Day function in Morabadi, Ranchi, on August 15. The decision follows Raj Bhavan’s approval of a state government proposal, modifying the usual protocol in view of Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s unavailability.

Traditionally, the Chief Minister unfurls the tricolour in Ranchi, while the Governor leads celebrations in Dumka. This year, however, CM Soren will remain at his ancestral village Nemra, performing shraddh rituals for his father, former Chief Minister and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) patriarch Shibu Soren, fondly called ‘Guruji’.

Shibu Soren, a towering figure in Jharkhand politics and a key architect of the separate state movement, passed away recently, prompting statewide mourning. In respect to the departed leader, the government has also cancelled the customary ‘At Home’ reception at Raj Bhavan on Independence Day.

Governor Gangwar’s presence at the Ranchi event will ensure the state-level celebrations proceed with full honours, though with a subdued tone in keeping with the period of mourning. Security and ceremonial arrangements at Morabadi are being finalised for a smooth programme.