SC Grants Relief to Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren in ED Case, Stays Criminal Proceedings

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday granted interim relief to Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren , staying the criminal proceedings initiated against him for allegedly failing to comply with summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate in a land acquisition case.

A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant heard Soren’s plea challenging the Jharkhand High Court’s refusal to quash the proceedings. After considering the submissions, the apex court issued notice to the ED and directed the agency to file its counter-affidavit within four weeks. The court further allowed Soren to file a rejoinder, if necessary, within two weeks thereafter. Until further orders, the criminal proceedings will remain stayed.

The case stems from allegations that Soren did not appear before the ED during its investigation into alleged irregularities in land transactions. The agency has accused him of involvement in large-scale acquisition of land through alleged benami transactions and manipulation of official records.

Soren was arrested by the ED in January 2024 in connection with the investigation. He was later granted bail by the Jharkhand High Court and released from Birsa Munda Jail in Ranchi on June 28 after spending nearly five months in custody.

Following his arrest, senior party leader Champai Soren took over as Chief Minister. He resigned after about five months, clearing the way for Hemant Soren to return to office.

The Supreme Court’s latest order provides temporary relief to the Chief Minister as the legal challenge to the proceedings moves forward, with further hearings expected after the ED files its response.