When Hemant Soren, who has become the chief minister of Jharkhand for the third time, undergoes a test of his support of a majority on the floor of the Assembly on Monday, he will do so amid challenges put up by a changed electoral landscape in Jharkhand where polls are going to be held before the end of 2024. 

For the first time in this state, not one MLA of the JMM or its allies - Congress, RJD, and Left parties- of the I.N.D.I.A block was sworn in as a Minister along with the Chief Minister. 

This was not without any reason. In 82 MLAs( including one nominated MLA) strong Assembly, the opposition comprising BJP, AJSU, NCP, and Independent have 24,3,1 and 1 MLAs respectively. 

This means they have the support of 29 MLAs.Among them, two MLAs- Dhullu Mahto and Manish Jaiswal have quit after getting elected as Member of Parliament. This means they have 27 MLAs. 

LAgainst them is the ruling I.N.D.I.A block comprising JMM, Congress, RJD, and CPI( ML) having 27,17,1 and 1 MLAs.Combined together they have the strength of 46 MLAs.

However, two JMM MLAs- Joba Manjhi and Nalin Soren have quit after winning and becoming MPs. This has left JMM plus allies with 44 MLAs. In other words, the total strength of the Assembly is 77. 

The magic number required to win the floor test is 39 MLAs. Since Hemant Soren has the backing of these 44 MLAs, his victory is almost certain. But, after gaining success in the floor test, CM Hemant Soren has to form his Cabinet. 

Since the aspirants were more than the maximum 11 number he could nominate as Ministers in the election year, CM Hemant Soren did not open his card before the floor test. 

MNow, after winning the floor test, he is expected to constitute his cabinet anytime. 46 MLAs of the JMM( 27), Congress( 17), CPI(1) and RJD(1),