Countdown to Floor Test: JMM and Allies Gear Up as MLAs Converge in Jharkhand

Approximately 40 MLAs affiliated with the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and its coalition partners are en route to the state from Hyderabad today, poised to participate in a crucial floor test scheduled for tomorrow.

This contingent of MLAs had been sequestered in a Hyderabad resort following the appointment of JMM leader Champai Soren as Chief Minister. The former Chief Minister, Hemant Soren, son of JMM co-founder Shibu Soren, is currently in jail facing allegations of corruption.

Resorting to the strategy of ‘resort politics,’ the ruling JMM aimed to shield its MLAs from potential poaching attempts by rival political factions seeking to induce defections. The ruling coalition in Jharkhand, comprising the JMM, Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and Communist Party of India (ML), collectively commands 46 MLAs (JMM – 28, Congress – 16, RJD – 1, CPI(ML) – 1), exceeding the majority mark of 41 in the 81-member assembly. It’s worth noting that one seat is currently vacant.

In contrast, the BJP and its allies hold 29 seats. Barring any unforeseen developments or significant twists, political analysts anticipate a smooth passage for the JMM government during the upcoming floor test.

This isn’t the first instance of the JMM facing a floor test. In September 2022, Hemant Soren’s government successfully secured a majority with 48 votes in favor. During that period, Soren faced potential disqualification from the assembly due to corruption allegations.

Champai Soren, the current Chief Minister, played an active role in the Jharkhand movement during the late 90s alongside Shibu Soren. Previously serving as the Transport Minister in Hemant Soren’s government, Champai Soren enjoys the support of the influential Soren family.