Jamtara/Ranchi: Jharkhand Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari has once again stirred controversy with his latest statement asserting that the Chief Minister’s post in Jharkhand belongs solely to the Soren family. Speaking at a program in his Jamtara constituency on Monday, the Congress leader declared, “Only members of the Soren family will become Chief Ministers in Jharkhand,” crediting the family for the creation and sacrifices behind the formation of the state.
Referring to Dishom Guru Shibu Soren and former CM Hemant Soren, Ansari praised their contribution to Jharkhand’s statehood movement, adding that their legacy ensures their permanent claim to the top post.
The remarks quickly drew sharp reactions from political quarters, particularly from Jharkhand Congress, which distanced itself from the statement. State Congress President Keshav Mahato Kamlesh clarified that CM decisions are made collectively by the alliance’s top leadership, and any opinion on such sensitive issues should be expressed within party forums.
“It may be Dr. Irfan Ansari’s personal view, not the official stance of the Congress,” Kamlesh said, warning party leaders against making divisive or premature comments.
Meanwhile, the JMM appeared more receptive to the sentiment. Party spokesperson Manoj Pandey said Ansari echoed what “common people of Jharkhand feel”, suggesting the public continues to support Hemant Soren’s leadership. “There is no vacancy for the CM’s post. The people still trust only Hemant Soren,” he said.
The statement comes at a politically sensitive time as alliance dynamics evolve ahead of future elections, and could potentially stir unease within the INDIA bloc in Jharkhand.
