High-Stakes Showdown: Jharkhand's Assembly Elections Begin

Jharkhand's first phase of assembly elections saw a voter turnout of 64.86%, with 1.37 crore voters deciding the fate of 683 candidates across 43 constituencies. Prominent figures such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Hemant Soren engaged in heated campaigns, each advocating their party's agenda.

The first phase of Jharkhand's assembly elections recorded a 64.86% voter turnout across 43 constituencies. Lohardaga led with 73.21% participation, while Hazaribag had the lowest at 59.13%, according to election officials. Voting was facilitated at 15,344 polling stations, featuring women-managed and disabled-friendly booths.

Among the 683 candidates, notable figures like former CM Champai Soren and ex-MP Geeta Kora contested. BJP's campaign focused on 'Roti, Beti, Maati', while the JMM-led coalition emphasized welfare schemes. Top BJP leaders, including PM Modi, criticized the ruling coalition over corruption allegations.

Key electoral battles include Champai Soren versus JMM's Ganesh Mahli in Seraikela, and Geeta Kora against Congress' Sona Ram Sinku. The second voting phase is scheduled for November 20, with counting on November 23. The 2019 elections saw JMM's alliance winning a majority, setting a high-stakes atmosphere this election season.

(With inputs from agencies.)