Delhi: Disgruntled JMM leader and former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday (August 26) along with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Sarma shared the picture of the meeting and also informed on X that Champai Soren will be joining the BJP on 30th August in Ranchi (Friday).
"Former Chief Minister of Jharkhand and a distinguished Adivasi leader of our country, @ChampaiSoren Ji met Hon’ble Union Home Minister @AmitShah Ji a short while ago. He will officially join the @BJP4India on 30th August in Ranchi," posted Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Earlier, Champai Soren had expressed his displeasure with the JMM leadership. Champai, who was the Jharkhand CM while Hemant Soren was in jail after arrested by ED, had to vacate the CM's seat after Hemant Soren came out of prison.
Champai Soren also flirted with the idea of starting his own party, reports had claimed. However, after days of speculations, Himanta Biswa Sarma's post about the JMM veteran joining the BJP on August 30 puts all speculations and rumours to rest.
What's Behind BJP Wooing Champai Soren?
Political experts have termed the BJP wooing Champai Soren as part of the saffron party's attempt to dent the tribal votebank of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Champai Soren is a popular face among tribals in the state and is known for his grassroots connect.
Political observers are also of the view that the BJP might pitch Champai as its CM face directly against Hemant Soren. Champai Soren's inclusion in the party also helps the BJP as the party had been struggling with the problem of not having a prominent face. Elections will be held in Jharkhand at the end of this year.