What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
NEW DELHI: The second and final phase of the Jharkhand Assembly elections concluded on Wednesday, with voter turnout reflecting active public participation. A total of 1.23 crore eligible voters, including 60.79 lakh women, cast their votes across 14,218 polling stations. This phase covered 38 constituencies in 12 districts, setting the stage for results on November 23.
The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is aiming to wrest power from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led Mahagathbandhan coalition, which is striving to retain its hold. Campaigns were dominated by issues of unemployment, corruption, women’s safety, and governance.
Union Minister and BJP election in-charge Shivraj Singh Chouhan criticized the Hemant Soren-led government, alleging governance failures. “The BJP-NDA government will transform the state and change the fate of its people,” he asserted, banking on dissatisfaction with the current administration to propel the BJP’s prospects.
Polling was conducted peacefully under tight security, with the Election Commission ensuring logistical arrangements to facilitate voter participation. Select booths closed early due to administrative reasons, while provisions were made for voters in queues at closing time.
Over 528 candidates contested in this phase, including key leaders like Chief Minister Hemant Soren and his wife, Kalpana Soren, representing the Mahagathbandhan. Leader of Opposition Amar Kumar Bauri (BJP) was also in the fray, further intensifying the electoral battle.
The elections are being closely watched as they could redefine Jharkhand’s political landscape. While the JMM highlighted welfare schemes and developmental achievements, the BJP focused on issues such as “infiltration from Bangladesh” and alleged corruption under the current government.
As the state awaits the results on November 23, both alliances remain optimistic about securing a decisive mandate. The outcome will not only shape Jharkhand’s future but also hold implications for the national political narrative ahead of the 2024 general elections.
