Jharkhand News: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren Granted Exemption from Personal Appearance Until December 16, HC Seeks ED’s Response

Ranchi, December 04, 2024: The Jharkhand High Court on Wednesday granted Chief Minister Hemant Soren temporary relief from personal appearance in a case concerning alleged non-compliance with summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The court has also directed the ED to file a detailed response regarding the matter.

High Court Reviews MP/MLA Court Order

CM Hemant Soren had filed a petition challenging an order by the MP/MLA Special Court that rejected his application for exemption from personal appearance under Section 205 of the CrPC. The MP/MLA Court had earlier mandated Hemant Soren’s personal presence on December 4. The High Court, after hearing arguments on the petition, provided temporary relief to the CM by staying the requirement for his appearance until December 16.

ED Summons and Alleged Non-Compliance

The case originates from an ED complaint accusing Hemant Soren of ignoring summons issued in connection with an ongoing investigation. The summons pertains to alleged financial irregularities. The ED has lodged a formal case under Section 2/2024 in the MP/MLA Court, citing non-compliance with its orders.

The High Court, while reviewing the matter, asked the ED to clarify its position on the allegations of non-compliance and provide an appropriate response before the next hearing.

Legal Proceedings Against CM Hemant Soren

The MP/MLA Special Judge, Sarthak Sharma, had earlier dismissed Hemant Soren’s plea for exemption, compelling him to appear personally. The CM subsequently approached the Jharkhand High Court, arguing that the lower court’s directive was unjustified and should be set aside.

Hemant Soren’s legal team invoked Section 205 of the CrPC, which allows for exemption from personal appearance under specific circumstances, to argue for relief from the proceedings.

Timeline of the Case

Implications of the High Court’s Intervention

The High Court’s directive provides temporary respite to CM Hemant Soren, allowing him to avoid immediate personal appearances in the MP/MLA Court. However, the ED’s pending response will play a crucial role in determining the future trajectory of the case.

Legal experts believe that the case could have significant political and legal ramifications, given that it involves a sitting chief minister and allegations of non-compliance with federal authorities.

Political Reactions and Public Attention

The case has drawn widespread attention in Jharkhand, with political opponents of the CM criticizing his alleged disregard for summons. Supporters of Hemant Soren argue that the legal proceedings are part of a politically motivated campaign.

Meanwhile, the High Court’s intervention has provided some relief to Hemant Soren’s government, which has been under scrutiny for various administrative and legal challenges.

Key Points for the Upcoming Hearing

The High Court’s next hearing on December 16 will focus on the ED’s detailed response. Key questions include:

As the case unfolds, it remains a critical legal and political development in Jharkhand. Further updates are expected as the courts deliberate on the matter.