Hemant Soren orders CBI probe into tribal activist Nisha Bhagat's death

Chief Minister Hemant Soren has recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the death of 39-year-old tribal activist Nisha Kumari Bhagat, demonstrating his government's commitment to a transparent and exhaustive inquiry.

"The CBI will now investigate the Nisha Bhagat case. Orders have been issued," Chief Minister Soren announced on Tuesday in a post on X.

The decision to transfer the probe to the central agency underscores the state government's proactive approach to resolving all questions surrounding the activist's death. Bhagat, a prominent figure in the Central Sarna Committee who worked to preserve Santhali culture and traditions, died by suicide on 6 November at her residence under the Pithoria police station area in Ranchi shortly after hosting a live broadcast on social media.

Prior to recommending the CBI probe, state authorities took immediate administrative action to ensure a fair investigation. Ranchi Rural Superintendent of Police Gaurav Goswami confirmed that police registered a formal case on 7 November based on a complaint lodged by Bhagat's father, Handu Bhagat. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was established to examine the case, while the officer-in-charge of Pithoria police station, Satish Kumar Pandey, was promptly removed from active duty and reassigned to police lines.

The referral to the CBI follows parallel institutional oversight. The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) issued a notice to the Jharkhand Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Ranchi Senior Superintendent of Police requesting an action-taken report within seven days.

By bringing in the CBI, Chief Minister Soren has ensured that the investigation into Bhagat's death will be conducted with maximum rigor, impartiality, and public accountability.