Supreme Court Upholds Enforcement Directorate’s Action Against Hemant Soren; Refers Petition to High Court

In a significant development, the Supreme Court has declined to intervene in the case of former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on charges of money laundering. The apex court, after hearing Soren’s petition challenging his arrest, directed him to approach the High Court, stating, “We are not interfering.”

Hemant Soren, arrested late Wednesday night, sought relief from the Supreme Court, alleging that the ED had misused its authority to destabilize a democratically-elected state government. He argued that his arrest was “illegal and without jurisdiction,” asserting that the ED was acting under the influence of the central government.

The Enforcement Directorate has accused Soren of involvement in a ₹600-crore land scam and the laundering of its proceeds. Despite his plea, the Supreme Court dismissed his petition, leading to a five-day extension of his judicial custody.

Meanwhile, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha veteran leader Champai Soren is set to take oath as the next Chief Minister of Jharkhand. Following a meeting with Governor CP Radhakrishnan in Ranchi, Champai Soren expressed confidence in forming the government, citing strong support from the alliance. He is expected to lead the state amid political developments triggered by Hemant Soren’s arrest.

As the legal proceedings continue, the political landscape in Jharkhand undergoes a transformation with implications for governance and stability in the region.