Ahead of the first phase of the Jharkhand Assembly elections, officials conducted mock polling at various stations across the state early Wednesday morning, beginning around 5:30 am. Presiding Officer Nitasha at Polling Booth No. 291 confirmed the readiness, saying, “Our agents are here. We are fully prepared, and all voters are welcome.”
Voting will commence in 43 constituencies from 7 am to 5 pm, though at 950 specific booths, the voting will close an hour earlier at 4 pm, allowing anyone in line at that time to still cast their vote, according to the Election Commission’s guidelines.
On Tuesday, Jharkhand Chief Election Officer K Ravi Kumar assured that everything is in place for a smooth and peaceful election process in 15 districts for Phase 1. Returning Officer Utkarsh Kumar for Ranchi added that comprehensive security measures, including deployment of CAPF forces, have been established, with all polling stations equipped with basic amenities and webcasting facilities.
In East Singhbhum, Deputy Commissioner Ananya Mittal stated that 1,913 booths have been set up, with over 600 classified as critical. Security forces, including more than 60 companies of police and CAPF teams, have been deployed, and all booths are being monitored via webcasting.
The BJP-led NDA is aiming to unseat the JMM-led coalition, with prominent figures like former Chief Minister Champai Soren and Congress leader Ajoy Kumar among the key candidates. The first phase includes significant contests, with former CM Champai Soren running in Seraikella, Congress leader Banna Gupta contesting JD(U) leader Saryu Roy in Jamshedpur West, and Ajoy Kumar challenging Purnima Das Sahu in Jamshedpur East. The second phase for the remaining 38 seats will be held on November 20, with the final count on November 23.
