Padma Honours for Achyutanandan, Shibu Soren Spark Political Debate

• The Centre announced 131 Padma Awards for 2026, including five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri.
• Former Kerala CM V S Achyutanandan received Padma Vibhushan posthumously, while JMM founder Shibu Soren was awarded Padma Bhushan posthumously.
• Achyutanandan's family welcomed the award, but Left leaders questioned the timing, linking it to upcoming Kerala elections.
• Jharkhand BJP praised Shibu Soren's contributions, but JMM insiders expressed displeasure, feeling Padma Bhushan was insufficient compared to others.
• The awards have fueled speculation about political realignments in Jharkhand and are seen as having a regional spread ahead of state elections.

Why It Matters: Padma Awards for V S Achyutanandan and Shibu Soren have ignited political discussions and election-related speculation.