Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's surprise Delhi Visit amidst ED money laundering probe

In response to a fresh summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren set out for the national capital on January 27, leaving observers speculating about the unexpected journey. The ED had asked Soren to be available for questioning on either January 29 or January 31, prompting the unanticipated visit. An official, speaking anonymously, stated that the trip was unplanned and scheduled events, including programs in Chaibasa on January 29, Palamu on January 30, and Giridih on January 31, were adjusted accordingly.

According to an unofficial source, the Chief Minister went to Delhi for legal consultations, although the Chief Minister's Office did not confirm this. Soren is expected to return on Sunday, as per the source. Earlier in the day, he briefly visited Raj Bhavan for a program. The ED had previously recorded Soren's statement on January 20 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), and the recent summons indicates that the questioning is yet to be concluded. The investigation revolves around an alleged "huge racket of illegal change of ownership of land by the mafia" in Jharkhand, with 14 individuals, including a former IAS officer, already arrested in connection with the case.