Jharkhand Minister Sudivya Sonu Dies Of Cardiac Arrest - news.abplive.com

**Jharkhand’s Higher Education and Tourism Minister Sudivya Kumar “Sonu” Dies at 56**

Jharkhand’s senior JMM leader Sudivya Kumar, popularly known as Sonu, passed away on Thursday after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest, officials said. The 56‑year‑old minister, who held the portfolios of higher education and tourism, collapsed at his residence in Ranchi and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His unexpected death has sent shockwaves through the state’s political establishment and raised concerns about the health of public officials who often juggle demanding schedules.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed deep grief, describing Sonu as “a dedicated public servant whose contributions to the state’s educational reforms and tourism development will be remembered.” Party colleagues in the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and opposition leaders also paid tribute, highlighting his role in expanding higher‑education infrastructure and promoting Jharkhand’s cultural heritage. The state government announced a three‑day mourning period, during which all official flags will fly at half‑mast.

The sudden demise has prompted calls for a review of health monitoring among senior officials. While the exact cause of the cardiac arrest remains under investigation, medical experts have warned that high‑stress environments and irregular work hours can exacerbate heart‑related ailments. The state will now initiate the process to appoint a successor to the higher‑education and tourism ministries, ensuring continuity of ongoing projects and policy initiatives.