Padma Bhushan for Shibu Soren: Hemant Soren thanks Central government

Ranchi - Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Sunday expressed deep appreciation to the Central government for conferring the Padma Bhushan on senior tribal leader and former Union Minister Shibu Soren, popularly known as ‘Dishom Guru’.

Shibu Soren, the founder of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, shares a father-son bond with Hemant Soren, who has carried forward his political legacy. Among tribal communities, Shibu Soren is revered as ‘Dishom Guru’, a symbol of leadership and resistance.

Posting on social media platform X, Hemant Soren said that the honour reflects the collective sentiments of Jharkhand. “On behalf of the entire state, I thank the Central government for announcing the Padma Bhushan for our beloved Baba Sw Dishom Guruji Shibu Soren,” he wrote.

The Chief Minister described his father’s life as a journey dedicated to social equality, inclusion, tribal identity, women’s empowerment, education, and justice for the poor and marginalised. He said Shibu Soren’s struggle was instrumental in achieving statehood for Jharkhand after decades of sustained movements.

Hemant Soren added that Shibu Soren continues to command immense respect not only in Jharkhand but also among tribal communities across the country, from Ladakh in the north to Kerala in the south, and from Rajasthan to Assam.

Calling him a true son of Mother India, Hemant Soren said that for millions of people, Shibu Soren remains a “Bharat Ratna in spirit”, whose contributions transcend formal titles.

The Padma Bhushan announcement has been warmly received across Jharkhand, where Shibu Soren is seen as a pillar of tribal pride and social justice. The recognition adds another milestone to the legacy of one of India’s most influential tribal leaders.

With inputs from IANS