Ranchi:
Love him or hate him, you simply cannot afford to ignore Shibu Soren in the politics of Jharkhand. For more than 40 years, Guruji - as he is called in Jharkhand - has dominated the political landscape of the region.
In the 10 years that Jharkhand has been a state, Shibu Soren has become Chief Minister thrice, never lasting a full term. His stints at the Centre have been marred by allegations of bribery and corruption. Yet, he remains a factor to reckon with - his support base undisturbed.
''He raised tribals' issues at a time when no one else was willing to do it. The Sadans and the Mahtos have always supported him. In fact, he enjoys the support of non-tribals too,'' Harivansh, Editor-in-Chief of Prabhat Khabhar.
By cosying up to the UPA, at a time when his coalition with the BJP in the state was working just fine, has Shibu Soren 'check-mated' himself?
Sources say Guruji did what he did to get back at his family, who were unwilling to vacate a seat that would enable him to get elected to the Assembly and continue as Chief Minister. His wife Rupi, an active party leader, has never won an election. So he turned to his Sita, his deceased son's wife, the MLA of Jama; and his second son Hemant, an MLA from Dumka.
The dynasty let him down when he needed it the most. In a rage, he ditched coalition partner BJP, threatening to bring the government down.
Even now, as the BJP demands the Chief Minister's post, Soren may be down not out. His political mileage is acknowledged even by his biggest detractors.
Says Babulal Marandi, Jharkhand Vikas Morcha MP and former Chief Minister of Jharkhand: ''There was a time when tribals would walk 25 kilometres to listen to Guruji. I remember those scenes. If he had not fallen prey to greed and his family's ambitions, his name could have been next to Gandhiji's, in the political history of the country.''
Clearly Jharkhand's politics is not ready to sign Guruji off.