Ranchi buzzed with political nostalgia on Wednesday as ex-Gujarat CM Shankar Singh Vaghela visited Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s office in the assembly premises. What started as a protocol meet quickly turned into a heartfelt reminiscence of past collaborations.
Vaghela, known for his independent streak and shifts across political ideologies, brought along a treasured memento: a photograph of himself with the iconic Shibu Soren from their days as fellow parliamentarians. Describing it as a symbol of enduring friendship, he presented it to Soren, who leads Jharkhand’s JMM-led government.
The image, rich in tribal and national political history, stirred emotions, prompting Soren to extend sincere appreciation. This exchange highlighted the late Shibu Soren’s national stature and Vaghela’s admiration for Jharkhand’s founding fathers.
Joining them was MLA Mathura Prasad Mahato, ensuring the meeting resonated locally. Beyond pleasantries, the interaction signals stronger inter-state ties, potentially opening doors for economic and cultural exchanges between Gujarat and Jharkhand.
Observers note that Vaghela’s outreach reflects a broader trend of senior leaders building bridges amid rising regionalism. As both states grapple with development challenges, such personal diplomacy could pave the way for mutual support in areas like industry and agriculture.