Jharkhand Elections: 38 seats, 1.23 crore voters, tight security for second phase on Nov 20

The second phase of the Jharkhand Assembly elections will take place on November 20, covering 38 constituencies across 12 districts. Voting will be held from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with over 1.23 crore voters eligible to cast their ballots. The constituencies involved in this phase include regions such as Rajmahal, Borio, Barhet, Littipada, Pakur, Maheshpur, and several others, with a total of 528 candidates contesting for seats.

In preparation for the elections, significant security measures have been implemented to ensure peaceful voting. A total of 585 companies of Central Armed Police Forces, 60 companies of Jharkhand Armed Police (JAP), and 30,000 personnel from district forces and home guards have been deployed to maintain law and order. These forces will be spread across all polling areas, with additional resources focused on sensitive regions.

The election process will be closely monitored through a series of security arrangements. Cameras have been installed inside and outside all polling stations to ensure proper surveillance. In addition to the physical security, all polling stations will be monitored through webcasting, allowing officials to oversee the voting process from various levels of the administration. This system will enable continuous monitoring to detect and address any irregularities.

Chief Electoral Officer K. Ravi Kumar has emphasized strict regulations regarding the presence of external political leaders and workers. He confirmed that only local candidates, workers, and voters are allowed in the polling areas. Any outsiders found within the constituency will be subject to legal action. The district administration is also tasked with inspecting hotels and accommodations to enforce this rule and ensure compliance with the Election Commission's guidelines.

Candidates contesting in this phase include a mix of established political figures and new entrants. Key leaders such as Chief Minister Hemant Soren, BJP leader Babulal Marandi, and Sudesh Mahato are among those contesting for seats. The elections will also feature 472 male candidates, 55 female candidates, and one transgender candidate. The focus is particularly on the Santhal region, traditionally considered a stronghold of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), where several seats are expected to draw significant attention.

Election officials have also stipulated that all election camps must be located at least 200 meters away from polling stations. Furthermore, no party symbols, posters, or promotional material can be displayed within this radius. This rule is part of efforts to maintain a neutral and fair voting environment throughout the polling day.