Election Fever: Jharkhand's Democratic Dance

The first phase of voting in 43 assembly constituencies of Jharkhand witnessed a 59.28% turnout by 3 PM. Key players include the JMM-led coalition and the BJP, each campaigning fiercely. Authorities seized illegal materials worth Rs 208.78 crore. With 1.37 crore eligible voters and 683 candidates, the political battle is intense.

The Jharkhand Assembly elections kicked off with a 59.28% voter turnout recorded by 3 PM on Wednesday, according to election officials. Voting, which covers 43 assembly constituencies, began at 7 AM and will continue until 5 PM across 15 districts.

Chief contenders include former Chief Minister Champai Soren and ex-MP Geeta Kora among the 683 candidates vying for 43 seats. Seraikela-Kharsawan recorded the highest turnout at 66.38%, setting a robust pace for the first phase.

The election shards have witnessed aggressive campaigns from the JMM-led coalition and the BJP, focusing on welfare schemes and Hindutva agendas, respectively. Meanwhile, authorities have seized illegal materials and cash worth Rs 208.78 crore with 58 cases of the model code of conduct violations reported.

(With inputs from agencies.)