To serve people, you need a genuine heart, money is secondary: Ram Das Soren

In a no-holds-barred interview, the grounded Ram Das spoke on clean politics, electoral strategy and his vision for his electorate

Deepak Mahato / Manpreet Bhatia

Ram Das Soren, or as his supporters affectionately call him, RDS, has long been a steady force within the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Now contesting from the Ghatsila constituency, Soren is looking to retain his seat with promises of development, stability, and dedication to his people. Known for his spotless political career in a field rife with controversies, he takes us through his journey, challenges, and his blueprint for the future of his constituency.

Q: You’ve been in politics for nearly three decades, a rare stretch marked by integrity. Unlike others in your party who’ve seen their share of legal troubles, you’ve maintained a remarkably clean image. How have you managed to steer clear of controversy?

RDS: To serve people, you don’t need money, just a genuine heart. I’ve always believed that to lead, you must stay connected to those you represent. I’ve made it my principle to help anyone who approaches me, regardless of their background or affiliation. My door is open to all. It’s that simple.

Q: This election season brings an interesting twist, with Babulal Soren, son of a former JMM colleague and close associate of yours, now contesting from BJP. Given his familiarity with your approach, how do you plan to counter his campaign?

RDS: A strong organization, like ours, isn’t about one person. Our values are ingrained in the party’s structure and our mission. Babulal may have left, but JMM remains steadfast. Many leaders have jumped to the BJP, but they often find themselves misaligned with its ethos and return. The BJP has its own issues – even senior leaders there are quietly reaching out to us. This election will show who truly stands with the people.

Q: With veteran JMM leader Champai Soren’s shift to BJP, your role within JMM’s central committee has only grown. As the party’s leadership placed their faith in you, what steps are you taking to secure all 14 seats in Kolhan?

RDS: I’m grateful for the trust our party leadership has shown. My role remains the same – to serve our people with honesty and dedication. Whatever tasks are entrusted to me, I fulfill to the best of my ability. My goal is to ensure that Kolhan feels the impact of JMM’s commitment to growth and stability.

Q: What are the key promises you’re bringing to the people of Ghatsila this election?

RDS: The BJP ruled Jharkhand for 18 years, yet Ghatsila’s potential remained untapped. From day one of my tenure, I listed out development priorities – starting with roads, essential for any development. Health and education have been other focal points. In the next five years, we aim to curb migration by creating local job opportunities. No one from Ghatsila should have to leave their home to make a living.

Q: Health remains a critical issue. What initiatives have you introduced to improve healthcare in your constituency?

RDS: The COVID-19 crisis opened everyone’s eyes to the importance of robust healthcare. In East Singhbhum district, where my constituency lies, we recently opened a 500-bed MGM College Hospital. It’s equipped to handle a range of illnesses, major and minor. Locally, we’ve set up primary health centers in nearly every village, staffed with a doctor and nurse. We’re already seeing improvements – pregnant women now have access to safe childbirth, and diseases like tuberculosis are being treated at these centers. Health is our foundation, and we’re committed to strengthening it.

Q: Your constituency has a large tribal population. What efforts are underway to ensure their welfare?

RDS: We’ve formed special task forces to understand the needs of the indigenous tribal groups. Many resist mainstream housing, preferring traditional thatched homes to the pukka houses we’ve built. Our focus is on gradually integrating them into mainstream society while respecting their customs. Education is key, and it’s slowly opening doors for the younger generation among them.

Q: You’ve spoken about making Ghatsila a tourism hotspot. What steps are you taking to make this happen?

RDS: Ghatsila is blessed with natural beauty. Our government has identified over a dozen potential tourist spots, each as mesmerizing as the next. The BJP overlooked this aspect for years. We’ve developed Burudih Dam as a prime tourist spot with better parking, a scenic park, and future guesthouses. We’re even working on a water management plan that will link Burudih with Chandil Dam. Ghatsila will not only draw in tourists but bring in revenue and create jobs for our people.

In a world where political motives are often questioned, Ram Das Soren’s vision for Ghatsila is refreshingly straightforward. For him, politics is less about power and more about the people. This election season, the people of Ghatsila may once again find themselves rallying behind a leader they trust – one who has been with them through thick and thin, ready to transform promises into reality.