Veteran politician succumbs to heart attack, played key role in removal of Babulal Marandi as CM
Lalchand Mahato, a three-time MLA from the Dumri Assembly constituency in Jharkhand and former Energy Minister, passed away late last night due to a heart attack at the age of 72.
RANCHI – Lalchand Mahato, the senior politician of Jharkhand, who has played an important role in the political arena of the state since after its creation, is no more. The veteran politician fell unconscious in the bathroom of his Ranchi residence after feeling dizzy and was immediately rushed to a private hospital, where he was declared dead by the doctors.
Mahato’s mortal remains will be brought to his ancestral home at Baidhakaro in Bokaro district this afternoon for the last darshan, following which he will be cremated with state honors.
Mahato played a significant role in Jharkhand politics, particularly in the early days of the state’s formation.
He had opened a front against the first Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Babulal Marandi, demanding his removal from the post due to disputes over certain issues.
Along with five of his colleagues, Mahato’s efforts led to the BJP leadership replacing Babulal Marandi with Arjun Munda as the Chief Minister.
Following this political upheaval, Babulal Marandi could not regain the position of Chief Minister.
Mahato’s demise has left a void in Jharkhand politics, with many leaders expressing their condolences and remembering his contributions to the state.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed his grief over Mahato’s passing, stating, "Lalchand Mahato’s death is a great loss for Jharkhand. He was a dedicated leader who always worked for the welfare of the people."
Mahato’s political career spanned several decades, during which he served as a member of the Legislative Assembly for three consecutive terms from the Dumri constituency.
He also held the position of Energy Minister in the state government, where he was known for his work towards improving the power infrastructure in Jharkhand.
As the news of his demise spreads, supporters and well-wishers have begun gathering at his ancestral home to pay their last respects to the departed leader.
