Optimistic over forming a new government in Jharkand, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha is all set to stake a claim for government formation, with Rashtriya Janata Dal supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav [Images] vowing to install him as chief minister at all costs.

Jharkhand: Soren inching towards majority

After meeting Governor Syed Sibte Razi at Raj Bhavan on Saturday night, Soren's son Durga and ally Nationalist Congress Party's Member of Legislative Assembly Kamlesh Singh said, "We sought a meeting at 4 pm on Monday. Guruji (Soren) will stake claim after meeting the Governor."

RJD declares 'strong support' for Shibu Soren

The duo told newsmen that Soren would come with the list of required number of MLAs but refused to divulge the exact figure. However, there has been no word from the Raj Bhavan.

Requiring a majority of 41 for the 81-member House, the JMM has 17 MLAs and guaranteed support of Congress, RJD and NCP.Four independents have pledged support to Soren and the JMM is lobbying to get the backing of at least three more independents to reach the magic figure.

Jharkhand CM Madhu Koda resigns

Soren got a shot in the arm when he received support of NCP MLA Kamlesh Singh and 'conditional' help from independent MLA Bhanu Pratap Sahi.

However, caretaker Chief Minister Madhu Koda claimed that he and five independents would not support Soren to form the new government.

Soren stakes claim for Jharkhand CM's post

Meanwhile, senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Yashwant Sinha demanded that the governor invite the single largest party before the JMM stakes claim for government formation. The BJP has 29 MLAs (including five suspended ones), the Janata Dal - United has four and has the support of Independent MLA Inder Singh Namdhari.