Jharkhand’s Former CM Demands Review of All Ex‑CM Security Cars

Former chief minister Babulal Marandi has escalated a long‑standing dispute with Jharkhand’s government by announcing the return of his 13‑year‑old bullet‑proof car on November 9, 2026. In a direct correspondence with Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Marandi cited repeated mechanical failures that left his convoy stranded on the road, compromising the safety of the security staff.

Marandi cited precedents set by ex‑CM Arjun Munda, who also complained about the poor condition of his protected vehicles. Munda’s records show six written appeals to the Home Department between July 2024 and June 2026, followed by a mandatory action order on March 14, 2026. Nevertheless, the problem persisted, culminating in a crash of one of Marandi’s escort vehicles near Choka on the night of November 6, 2026.

The opposition leader questioned why, after purchasing 17 new bullet‑proof cars in December 2024, the former chief ministers have not received any replacements. He called for a uniform standard to assess all ex‑CM security automobiles, the release of relevant Home Department documentation, and a written response detailing the steps taken within seven days of his request.