High Turnout Marks First Phase of Jharkhand Assembly Election 2024
The first phase of Jharkhand’s Assembly Election 2024 is witnessing a significant voter turnout, with 59.28% participation recorded as of 3 p.m. on November 13. Voters in 43 of Jharkhand’s 81 constituencies are casting their ballots, setting a vibrant democratic tone. This election phase includes 20 seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST) and six for Scheduled Castes (SC), and a large segment of the voter base has shown enthusiasm, turning out early to participate in the process.
Key Constituencies and Candidates
Among the most closely watched constituencies are Seraikella, Ranchi, Jamshedpur West, Jaganathpur, and Jamshedpur East. The Jamshedpur East seat is particularly notable, with BJP’s Purnima Das Sahu facing a challenge from Congress leader Ajoy Kumar, making it a significant contest as Kumar aims to break the BJP’s long-standing hold in the region. In Jaganathpur, former Chief Minister’s spouse Geeta Koda of the BJP has committed to reopening local mines, a move aimed at boosting employment, as she competes against Congress’s Sona Ram Sinku.
Key Issues: Infiltration and Unemployment
Campaign rhetoric has been intense, focusing on economic and security concerns. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent rally, raised concerns about the issue of alleged “Bangladeshi infiltration,” which he claims has impacted the tribal population in Santhal Pargana, an area with a strong tribal presence. Modi emphasized the BJP’s commitment to safeguarding local livelihoods and countering the effects of migration. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Hemant Soren and the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) continue to stress employment opportunities and democratic rights for locals.
Voting Patterns and Observations
By noon, Khunti district led with a high voter turnout, while Ranchi recorded one of the lowest turnouts. Political leaders from various parties, including Chief Minister Hemant Soren and other senior BJP and Congress leaders, were seen at polling stations, casting their votes and encouraging public participation. Soren highlighted the “importance of protecting democracy” and called on voters to ensure that their voice is heard in shaping the state’s future.
Upcoming Phases and Expectations
With 43 constituencies in the books, the remaining seats will see voting in the subsequent phases scheduled for November 20. Given the heightened competition and substantial voter turnout so far, analysts predict a tight race. Final results will be announced on November 23.
Web Team, C6N
