The Jharkhand Assembly election for 2024 commenced on November 13, marking the first phase of polling across 43 constituencies. By the end of the day, voter turnout had exceeded 64% by 5 pm, with electronic voting machines (EVMs) sealed as voting concluded. High-profile leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, encouraged citizens to actively participate in the democratic process.
Several notable events took place throughout the day. Former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni cast his vote in Ranchi, while BJP leader Geeta Koda promised to focus on job creation through mining within her constituency. Key areas like Seraikella-Kharsawan saw substantial voter engagement, with turnout reaching 66.38% by 3 pm.
Campaign messages addressed a wide range of issues. PM Modi criticized Congress, alleging disrespect toward tribal women, whereas Congress leader Rajesh Thakur highlighted the achievements of the JMM-Congress alliance over the past five years. Union Minister Sanjay Seth pledged a firm response to alleged Bangladeshi infiltration, a concern also raised by BJP candidate Champai Soren.
JMM candidate Mahua Maji and others emphasized women’s safety and regional development as central campaign promises. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren accused the BJP of running a “shadow” campaign to damage his reputation. Both parties debated on issues such as employment, security, and social justice, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah urging voters to support “roti, beti, and mati” (livelihood, daughter, and soil) as symbols of Jharkhand’s cultural integrity.The Election Commission reported that polling in the initial phase progressed smoothly, with a high turnout despite elevated tensions surrounding employment, infiltration, and tribal identity protection.
