Ranchi: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s upcoming visit to Sweden and Spain has drawn criticism from Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi, who has questioned both the timing and composition of the delegation amid challenges in the state, including electricity shortages and law and order concerns.

In a post on X, Marandi criticised the exclusion of the state’s Industry Minister from the official team, pointing out that the presence of department officials alone does not justify the omission. He also questioned the inclusion of JMM MLA Kalpana Soren, the Chief Minister’s wife, asking in what capacity she was participating if the tour was meant for investment promotion.

Marandi further alleged that this was not the first instance of sidelining elected ministers, citing a past investment meeting in Kolkata where the Industry Minister was reportedly excluded while the Chief Minister was accompanied by his wife.

The inclusion of a retired Indian Foreign Service officer in the delegation also drew scrutiny, with Marandi noting the officer’s public reputation in the state.

The BJP leader said the trip raises questions about the use of public resources and called on the state government to clarify whether the travel is official or personal.

Hemant Soren, who recently became national president of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), heads a coalition government in the state with support from the Congress, RJD, and Left parties. The trip and the controversy surrounding it come at a politically sensitive time for the ruling alliance.