The JMM, leading the coalition government in Jharkhand alongside Congress-RJD and part of the INDIA bloc, plans to utilise Kalpana Soren, the party’s executive president and wife of former chief minister Hemant Soren, in their Lok Sabha poll campaign, capitalising on sentimentality.

This intention was evident as over 10,000 gathered in Giridih welcomed Kalpana, 48, with enthusiastic chants of “jail ka tala tutega, Hemant Soren chhutega” (jail locks will break, Hemant Soren will be released) during a public function commemorating the party’s 51st foundation day in Giridih.

The ED arrested Soren on January 31 over alleged money laundering charges related to a land scam. Following his resignation before the governor, he is under judicial custody at Ranchi Central Jail.

A veteran JMM MLA, closely associated with Shibu Soren and Hemant, said the decision to involve Kalpana was made after consulting both Hemant and Kalpana. “We consulted both of them before making this decision. She was made the chief guest at the party function in the presence of chief minister Champai Soren and other senior leaders and MLAs. Her speech, spanning over 20 minutes, resonated deeply with the masses, particularly women and youth. She will undoubtedly be a prominent campaigner for the party during the upcoming Lok Sabha polls,” confided the seasoned leader from Santhal Pargana.

Senior JMM officials, however, clarified that no decision had yet been made regarding her candidacy in the approaching Lok Sabha or Assembly elections later this year. “As of now, she will campaign for the party. A decision on her candidacy in the Lok Sabha polls or Assembly elections will be taken later,” said an official.

On Sunday, Kalpana posted on Soren’s social media handle: “Today, on my birthday and before attending the foundation program of JMM in Giridih, I took blessings of the creator of Jharkhand state and president of JMM respected Baba Dishom Guruji and mother (Roopi Soren). Also, met Hemant ji this morning.”

She continued: “Until Hemant ji comes among us, I will continue to be his voice and share his thoughts with all of you. I will continue to serve you. I believe that the same affection and blessings you have given to your son and brother Hemant ji, you will give the same affection and blessings to me.”