Ranchi: The election campaigning for the second and final phase of the Jharkhand Assembly elections officially ended at 5 PM on Monday, setting the stage for voting to take place on November 20. A total of 528 candidates are vying for votes in 38 constituencies spread across the state.
This final phase of voting will cover a wide range of districts, including Rajmahal, Borio, Barhait, Littipara, Pakur, Maheshpur, Shikaripara, Nala, Jamtara, Dumka, Jama, Jarmundi, Madhupur, Sarath, Deoghar, Poraiyahat, Godda, Mahagama, Ramgarh, Mandu, Dhanwar, Bagodar, Jamua, Gandey, Giridih, Dumri, Gomia, Bermo, Bokaro, Chandankiyari, Sindri, Nirsa, Dhanbad, Jharia, Tundi, Baghmara, Silli, and Khijri.
Among the 528 candidates, 472 are men, 55 are women, and one is a transgender candidate. Additionally, 257 independent candidates are also participating in the race, as voters in these constituencies prepare to cast their ballots.
To ensure a smooth and secure election process, the Election Commission has set up 14,218 voting booths, including 7,390 general booths and 900 in Naxal-affected areas. Voting will take place from 7 AM to 4 PM across these booths, with special arrangements in place for the safety and convenience of voters.
In light of security concerns, the state has ramped up its security measures. A total of 585 companies of paramilitary forces, 60 companies of the Jharkhand Armed Police (JAP), and approximately 30,000 district police personnel and home guards have been deployed to maintain law and order and ensure a peaceful election day.
Meanwhile, the District Election Officers have issued a general notice detailing restrictions under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The notice states that no person shall:
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- Call, organize, or participate in any public meeting or procession related to the election within 48 hours leading up to the end of voting.
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- Display any election-related content through media channels such as cinema, television, or other public platforms.
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- Organize musical concerts, dramatic performances, or any form of entertainment aimed at attracting the public during this time.
- Violations of these provisions could lead to imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both.
The notice further stipulates that any political campaign workers or individuals from outside the constituency who are not voters or candidates must leave the assembly constituency by 5 PM on November 18. Strict action will be taken against those found violating this directive, particularly in the 61-Silli and 62-Khijri constituencies, where additional scrutiny will be applied.
As the state prepares for the final phase of elections, all eyes will be on November 20 as voters head to the polls amid tight security and heightened vigilance.