High voter turnout both a sign of worry and hope for parties in Jharkhand
By PC Bureau
In the first phase of the Jharkhand Assembly elections, 43 seats across the state saw an impressive voter turnout of 65% by 5 PM on Wednesday. With tribal-dominated regions like South Chotanagpur, Palamu, and Kolhan leading the way, the electoral fervor reflects the charged atmosphere in a state crucial for both the BJP and the INDIA bloc. Among these constituencies, 20 are reserved for Scheduled Tribes and six for Scheduled Castes, signaling a significant vote from marginalized communities.
The high voter turnout in tribal regions is seen as encouraging for both the BJP and the INDIA Bloc. Both coalitions made significant efforts to connect with tribal voters, with the INDIA Bloc emphasizing concerns about issues like infiltration, while the JMM-led faction has focused on promises to safeguard tribal identity through measures like advocating for the Sarna Code.
The political narratives driving the election have been sharply divided. The BJP’s manifesto offers 25 promises, aiming to tackle local issues, including a pledge to exempt tribals from the Uniform Civil Code in an attempt to secure support in JMM strongholds like Kolhan.
Also Read: Smog engulfs Delhi-NCR, plunging visibility
Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc has highlighted social justice and reservations, guaranteeing 28% for tribals, 12% for Dalits, and 27% for OBCs. Both alliances are vying to win over Jharkhand’s tribal heartland, promising policies that prioritize dignity, justice, and welfare.
Key candidates have drawn considerable attention. Former Chief Minister and BJP candidate Champai Soren faces JMM’s Ganesh Mahli in Seraikela, while former Congress CM Madhu Koda’s wife, Geeta Koda, runs on a BJP ticket in Jaganathpur. The high-profile competition has attracted major figures, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leaders emphasizing their vision for Jharkhand’s future.
Meanwhile, addressing rally in Deoghar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his powerful, rhetoric-laden speeches, accused Congress of a deep conspiracy to dismantle the reservation system—a lifeline for many. “This shehzada,” he said, a thinly veiled jab at Congress’s Rahul Gandhi, “is scheming to scrap reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs. This conspiracy threatens to change the identity of Jharkhand.”
Modi accused the ruling JMM-led coalition of “patronizing infiltrators” and compromising the security of Jharkhand’s daughters and livelihoods, claiming that Jharkhand’s resources were under siege.
On the other hand, Chief Minister Hemant Soren, after casting his vote, reminded the people of their duty to exercise their right to vote. “Let us strengthen democracy,” he urged, emphasizing that every vote would contribute to a government committed to justice, security, and the people’s voice.
In contrast, Rahul Gandhi addressed the public with a rallying cry to protect democracy and secure the rights of all communities. “Your vote is a shield for your rights, a promise for prosperity,” he said, promising seven guarantees that spoke directly to Jharkhand’s needs: protection of land, water, and forest rights, and a commitment to social justice.
As the crowds thronged to vote, leaders from both sides exuded confidence. Former Chief Minister and BJP leader Champai Soren was particularly vocal, promising the BJP would sweep all seats in the Kolhan region. “No ifs and buts about it,” he declared.
