High-Stakes Drama Unfolds as ED Gears Up to Question Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren in Land Scam Case
In a riveting turn of events, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is set to record the statement of Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren today at his official residence. The probe revolves around a money laundering case linked to an alleged land scam, sending ripples through the political landscape of the state.
Security Tightened: Security measures have been significantly intensified around the Chief Minister's house and the zonal office of the Enforcement Directorate in Ranchi. Barricades have been erected outside both locations, with over 1,000 security personnel deployed to ensure a three-layer security blanket. The Ranchi administration has imposed traffic restrictions near the CM's residence until the questioning concludes.
ED's Call: The ED had dispatched a letter on January 13, instructing Chief Minister Hemant Soren to make himself available for questioning between January 16 and January 20. In response, Soren communicated his willingness to have his statement recorded at his residence on January 20.
Protests and Tensions: The impending investigation has not been without its share of controversy. Amid protests by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and various tribal outfits, the ED has reached out to the chief secretary, director general of police, and Ranchi's senior superintendent of police to ensure security and maintain law and order during the questioning.
Historical References: The case involves an intricate web of illegal land ownership changes orchestrated by a mafia in Jharkhand. The ED's actions have sparked memories of historical uprisings, with tribal organizations taking to the streets in a protest march reminiscent of the 'Ulgulan' movement led by Birsa Munda in the 19th century.
Soren's Legal Battles: Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who also serves as the JMM executive president, has faced legal battles, having skipped seven ED summonses in connection with the money laundering case. Despite filing petitions before both the Supreme Court and the Jharkhand High Court seeking protection, the courts have dismissed his pleas, paving the way for the ED's relentless pursuit.
Political Ramifications: The ruling JMM recently called for a nine-hour strike in Sahibganj district in protest against the ED's summons to Soren. The agency has made 14 arrests in the case, including a 2011-batch IAS officer, Chhavi Ranjan, who served in key administrative positions.
As tensions escalate, the unfolding drama brings to light the intricate interplay between politics, law, and public sentiment in this high-profile land scam case in Jharkhand.
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