Nation will not forgive BJP for cheating people with their lies, says new face of the Opposition
In just a few weeks after the Enforcement Directorate apprehended her husband Hemant Soren, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, in an alleged case of money laundering, she has surfaced as one of the most prominent faces in national politics. Her presence and speeches in INDIA block’s humongous rallies at the national platforms is being admired by political veterans.
Popularly being seen as the next chief Minister Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Kalpana Murmu Soren, is an army officer’s daughter, an engineering graduate, an MBA, a housewife, a mother of two kids and politician due to compulsion. Being seen in the present times as one of the most promising women politicians of the country, Kalpna is on a mission to “save the Constitution and democracy.
In a candid interview with the Pioneer, Kalpna Soren poured out her heart on her entry into politics, internal and external challenges before her as a budding politician, burning issues of the State and the nation as well as her vision to bring about a change in the country after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections . Excerpts:
What compelled you to enter politics? Was it due to prevailing situations, or you were read for it beforehand?
It was January 31, 2024, when my life took a sudden turn after Hemant Soren ji was arrested. My life has completely changed since then. The whirlwind of events caught me off guard, leaving me unprepared for the challenges that lay ahead. Amidst the tumultuous ups and downs within both the party and our family, I have emerged with a clear vision: to advocate for the people of Jharkhand and all those across the nation who have been denied their rights.
As we enter the election season, our focus is unwavering. We are gearing up to contest every Lok Sabha seat in the state, driven by a fierce determination to safeguard the identity and rights of every individual belonging to Jharkhand. Our mission is to fight for the very existence of every 'Jharkhandi'.
Did it ever come to your mind to enter politics? As the ED investigation was going on, were you being prepared for this?
There was absolutely no prior preparation for this. As the case unfolded, I stood by Hemant ji during his legal challenges. However, when everything unfolded unexpectedly, I found myself in a situation where my in-laws' health was deteriorating, my brother-in-law took on new responsibilities in the State Cabinet, and party workers began approaching me, urging me to step forward and support them. They expressed their longing for Hemant Ji and implored me to step in and help fill the void, emphasizing the urgency of saving Jharkhand.
Who do you think is responsible for Hemant Soren’s arrest?
It's widely understood that the case against Hemant ji lacks merit, given the unique nature of the land in question—it's unsellable. Authorities should have verified any connection between him and the land before making an arrest. Surprisingly, not a single document bears Hemant Soren's name. Even more intriguingly, the landowners themselves have been implicated in the case. This raises serious questions about the motives behind Hemant ji's arrest. The forces behind the arrest are known to one and all.
With Jharkhand gaining notoriety for corruption, do you think corruption is the biggest challenge in Jharkhand’s development?
Corruption knows no borders—it is there in various forms across the world. In Jharkhand, corruption is evident in the Centre's failure to allocate over Rs 1,36,000 Crore in royalties owed to the state. Additionally, the disregard for our plea for a separate Sarna Religious Code and the denial of 27 per cent reservation for OBCs further exemplify corruption.
Further exacerbating the situation, the authorities have unjustly snatched PMAY houses from 8 lakh families in Jharkhand, reallocating them to States with their double engine governments. Moreover, they have invalidated 12 lakh ration cards, yet expect unwavering loyalty in return. This exploitation of our resources without reciprocation has left the people feeling deceived—a form of grand corruption.
While the Jharkhand government is actively combating corruption within its jurisdiction, the Center's neglectful treatment only fuels public discontent. Hemant ji's vocal opposition to these injustices speaks volumes, as evidenced by the current state of affairs.
What caused such a dispute in JMM’s first family? How do you see Sita Soren’s departure for the party?
The news of my elder sister-in-law's departure from the party to join the BJP came as a complete surprise to us all, especially since we learned about it through the media. Initially, I was deeply affected by the developments surrounding Hemant ji, and it took some time for us to process everything. However, after speaking with senior party leaders, we realized that her decision was a personal one, and it was important for us to respect it. Despite the differences, I hold great admiration and respect for her, viewing her as an elder sister-in-law. I simply want to extend my best wishes to her as she embarks on this new journey.
How are you being received in the party?
The outpouring of support has been heartening from every corner. From Rahul Gandhi's Nyay Yatra to the Ulgulan Nyay Rally in Jharkhand, blessings have poured in from small party workers to senior members alike. Each member of the JMM sees me as carrying forward Hemant Ji's thoughts, urging me to persist in the fight for the people of Jharkhand. The overwhelming love and blessings from the party workers have left me deeply moved and grateful.
How do you plan to stand against BJP’s might?
The deceptive tactics of the BJP government have become evident to everyone now. Since 2014, the BJP has been spreading numerous falsehoods, promising employment, depositing 15 lakh rupees in bank accounts, and doubling farmers' income. Over the past decade, it has become increasingly clear to the people of India that the BJP's promises were nothing but empty rhetoric. Despite these assurances, the reality remains unchanged—people continue to struggle to make ends meet.
In places like Manipur, where suffering has been palpable, many have remained silent witnesses to the BJP's failures. The BJP's deceit and falsehoods will not be easily forgotten or forgiven by the people. After a decade of broken promises and unfulfilled commitments, it's evident that the BJP's words cannot be trusted.
Do you think more women should enter politics and empower others?
Absolutely! Women's representation in politics remains significantly low in our country, especially in states like Jharkhand. If I can serve as an inspiration for women to step forward, seize power, and become influential decision-makers at both the state and national levels, I would consider myself incredibly fortunate.
Are you ready for the responsibility for the next Chief Minister of Jharkhand?
As of now, I am just a simple Sepoy of the JMM, just beginning to grasp the ideals and aspirations of my father-in-law, Shibu Soren, my husband Hemant ji, and my fellow party members. When I interact with party members, they share their experiences with Guruji, which fills me with pride for both them and my family.
Being referred to as a warrior resonates with me because I see myself as someone who perseveres through challenges and is prepared to tackle whatever comes my way. I eagerly await my husband's return and continue to fight in his absence. Once he resumes leadership of the party, I'll steadfastly support him while remaining active in politics under his guidance.
