Jharkhand Election: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led INDIA bloc has won 56 seats, securing a second consecutive term in the 81-member Jharkhand Assembly. The results, declared on November 23, show a strong performance from the ruling alliance, which includes JMM, Congress, CPI(ML)L, and RJD. The alliance has improved on its 2019 performance in the state elections.
Key Results:
- JMM, led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, won 34 seats.
- Congress secured 16 seats.
- RJD won 4 seats, and CPI(ML)L bagged 2 seats.
- The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured 24 seats, with the BJP winning 21 seats and AJSU, LJP, and JD-U each winning 1 seat.
In the 2019 elections, JMM emerged as the largest party with 30 seats, and BJP won 25 seats. The JMM had then formed a government with the support of Congress and RJD.
What’s New in the 2024 Jharkhand Assembly?
- Record Number of Women MLAs: The new assembly has 12 women MLAs, the highest ever in Jharkhand’s 24-year history. Women now make up 15% of the 81-member house, up from 10 in the outgoing assembly.
- Older Leadership: The median age of MLAs has risen significantly. In 2009, the median age was 43. By 2024, it has increased to 53, signaling an aging leadership in the state.
- Educational Profile: The educational background of MLAs has remained consistent over the past decade. Around 40% of the MLAs have higher secondary education, 37% are graduates, and 22% are postgraduates.
- Political Experience: Approximately 70% of the new MLAs come from a background in politics or social work, reflecting the continuation of experienced leadership in the assembly.
What Does This Mean for Jharkhand?
The 2024 Jharkhand Assembly marks a shift in both gender representation and political experience. With a record number of women entering the legislature and an older, more experienced leadership taking charge, the state is poised for a new chapter in its political journey.
As the ruling alliance strengthens its hold, all eyes are on how these new dynamics will shape governance and development in Jharkhand.
Key Takeaways:
- 56 seats for JMM-led INDIA bloc.
- Record 12 women MLAs in the new assembly.
- The median age of MLAs rises to 53.
- Political experience remains strong with 70% of MLAs from political or social work backgrounds.