Ranchi: Jharkhand recorded a voter turnout of 64.86% by 5 PM on Wednesday in the first phase of its Assembly elections, surpassing the 63.9% turnout seen in the 2019 elections. Voting took place across 43 constituencies in 15 districts, and the Election Commission of India (ECI) reported that polling concluded peacefully with no major incidents.
The ECI noted a “festive mood” and high voter enthusiasm, particularly in areas historically affected by Left-Wing Extremism. Voters from diverse groups, including women, first-time voters, elderly citizens, persons with disabilities, and tribal communities, participated in large numbers. Despite calls for boycotts and threats from militants, turnout was strong across the affected regions.
In districts like Garhwa and West Singhbhum, security forces successfully thwarted attempts by extremists to disrupt polling. In Garhwa’s Budha Pahad region, a historically extremist stronghold, voters lined up at newly established polling stations. The station at Hesatu was set up for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, providing locals with easier access to voting. In West Singhbhum, areas like Sonapi and Rabangada saw voters defy threats from militants aiming to block roads and intimidate voters.
The elections are crucial for determining the fate of 683 candidates, with seats across general, Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Scheduled Caste (SC) categories up for grabs. Security was tight, especially in Naxal-affected zones, where 2249 polling booths were classified as critical. Around 600 companies of paramilitary forces and thousands of state police personnel were deployed to ensure a smooth process. However, a CRPF jawan was injured in Latehar district after being shot during the polling process. He was airlifted to Delhi for treatment.
Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar confirmed that the first phase was free of major disruptions, although there were reports of attempts to influence voting at some booths, which were promptly addressed. He also noted complaints regarding violations of the “silence period” during the elections, which are under investigation.
As the first phase concludes, polling personnel are returning from the booths, with additional security measures in place for their safe journey. The election process continues as Jharkhand prepares for the next phases of voting.
