DHANDAB, JHARKHAND: With the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly election just around the corner, The New Indian team reached Jharkhand to capture the ground sentiments shaping this year’s Jharkhand polls. The youth and first-time voters across the state, including regions like Dhanbad and Ranchi, are outspoken, raising urgent concerns about Rohingya infiltration, job scarcity, corruption, and obstacles to Jharkhand’s growth and development.
First-time voters expressed frustration over limited job opportunities within Jharkhand. Local youth highlighted how neighbouring states seem to offer more prospects, while Jharkhand’s own potential remains untapped. “We have talent here, but our leaders have done little to create opportunities in Jharkhand,” says Krish Sachdev, a first-time voter from Dhanbad.
Education standards are another shared concern. Many youth, particularly first-time voters, attribute some of Jharkhand’s social and economic issues to the influx of Rohingya refugees. The youth are calling for a clear policy on managing migration to protect Jharkhand’s economic and cultural stability.
Across various towns, there is a shared desire for a government that prioritises transparency and infrastructure. Roads, healthcare, and electricity were common topics in conversations with first-time voters, who believe corruption is a major hurdle in achieving these improvements. “We want leaders who are committed to change, not just promises. Our infrastructure is in bad shape, and corruption is everywhere,” remarked students and first-time voters in Dhanbad.
As the countdown to the Jharkhand polls continues, the young electorate in Jharkhand hopes for leadership that prioritises youth empowerment, job creation, and improved infrastructure and addresses the challenges posed by increasing migration. The upcoming election presents an opportunity for Jharkhand’s leaders to listen and act on the aspirations of the youth, who are more determined than ever to see a brighter future for their state.
With a substantial portion of Jharkhand’s population made up of young voters, their concerns are anticipated to play a defining role in this election. Whether candidates will address these pressing issues remains to be seen as Jharkhand heads to the polls.