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- Jharkhand Election 2024 Live: BJP predicts victory in 33 seats as Jharkhand wraps up Phase 1 voting
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Nov 13, 2024, 23:15:33 IST
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Jharkhand Election 2024 Live: BJP predicts victory in 33 seats as Jharkhand wraps up Phase 1 voting
Jharkhand Voting Phase 1 Live: The first phase of Jharkhand's assembly elections, held on Wednesday, saw a strong turnout of 64.86% across 43 assembly constituencies by 5 pm, surpassing the 63.9% turnout recorded in the 2019 elections, according to the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Voting, which began at 7 am, proceeded peacefully without any violence reported. The Election Commission confirmed that polling concluded smoothly with a high level of enthusiasm and a festive atmosphere across districts with large tribal populations, including areas historically affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE). Voters from various groups—including first-time voters, the elderly, women, persons with disabilities, and tribal communities—actively participated in the election process across 15 districts, undeterred by threats or boycott calls.
A notable highlight of the elections was the voter turnout in previously extremist-affected areas like Budha Pahad in Garhwa district, where residents were able to vote in their village for the first time, signaling a strengthened democratic process. Similarly, in Potka AC of East Singhbhum district, a 100% tribal village, Lakhaidih, had a polling station set up within the village itself for the first time, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances through challenging terrain.
Simultaneously, bypolls took place in 31 assembly constituencies across 10 states, including the Wayanad parliamentary constituency in Kerala. In Sikkim, two assembly constituencies were uncontested.
The Election Commission, led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, maintained vigilance over more than 15,000 polling stations, ensuring transparency through webcasting at each site. Despite boycott calls and threat posters in regions like Manoharpur and Jaganathpur in West Singhbhum district, voters defied these pressures and exercised their democratic rights.
Jharkhand’s Chief Electoral Officer, K Ravi Kumar, reported that all complaints were promptly addressed, and polling concluded peacefully. Provisional turnout data of 64.86% will be updated through the Voter Turnout App as results come in from polling stations, depending on logistics and geographical factors.
Ahead of the elections, the ECI ensured complete voter registration for the 1.78 lakh members of eight Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Jharkhand. Polling stations across the state were decorated with Jharkhand’s cultural themes and equipped with basic facilities like drinking water, first aid, ramps, and wheelchairs.
The BJP-led NDA is competing to unseat the ruling JMM-led coalition, with notable candidates including Chief Minister Hemant Soren, former CM Champai Soren, JMM leader Mahua Maji, and Congress leader Ajoy Kumar. Commenting on the turnout, former Jharkhand Congress President Rajesh Thakur stated that rural voters favored the INDIA bloc, while the BJP’s focus remains on urban areas.
The remaining 38 seats will vote on November 20, with results scheduled for release on November 23.
Voting, which began at 7 am, proceeded peacefully without any violence reported. The Election Commission confirmed that polling concluded smoothly with a high level of enthusiasm and a festive atmosphere across districts with large tribal populations, including areas historically affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE). Voters from various groups—including first-time voters, the elderly, women, persons with disabilities, and tribal communities—actively participated in the election process across 15 districts, undeterred by threats or boycott calls.
A notable highlight of the elections was the voter turnout in previously extremist-affected areas like Budha Pahad in Garhwa district, where residents were able to vote in their village for the first time, signaling a strengthened democratic process. Similarly, in Potka AC of East Singhbhum district, a 100% tribal village, Lakhaidih, had a polling station set up within the village itself for the first time, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances through challenging terrain.
Simultaneously, bypolls took place in 31 assembly constituencies across 10 states, including the Wayanad parliamentary constituency in Kerala. In Sikkim, two assembly constituencies were uncontested.
The Election Commission, led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, maintained vigilance over more than 15,000 polling stations, ensuring transparency through webcasting at each site. Despite boycott calls and threat posters in regions like Manoharpur and Jaganathpur in West Singhbhum district, voters defied these pressures and exercised their democratic rights.
Jharkhand’s Chief Electoral Officer, K Ravi Kumar, reported that all complaints were promptly addressed, and polling concluded peacefully. Provisional turnout data of 64.86% will be updated through the Voter Turnout App as results come in from polling stations, depending on logistics and geographical factors.
Ahead of the elections, the ECI ensured complete voter registration for the 1.78 lakh members of eight Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Jharkhand. Polling stations across the state were decorated with Jharkhand’s cultural themes and equipped with basic facilities like drinking water, first aid, ramps, and wheelchairs.
The BJP-led NDA is competing to unseat the ruling JMM-led coalition, with notable candidates including Chief Minister Hemant Soren, former CM Champai Soren, JMM leader Mahua Maji, and Congress leader Ajoy Kumar. Commenting on the turnout, former Jharkhand Congress President Rajesh Thakur stated that rural voters favored the INDIA bloc, while the BJP’s focus remains on urban areas.
The remaining 38 seats will vote on November 20, with results scheduled for release on November 23.
09:28 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: 10.08 % turnout up to 9am in Shiggaon assembly
The electoral roll includes 2,37,525 eligible voters: 1,21,443 males, 1,16,076 females, and six transgender voters in the constituency.
09:18 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra urges people to vote 'for the respect of the tribals'
"My dear brothers and sisters of Jharkhand, Today is the day to use the rights given to you by the Constitution and elect a welfare government for yourself. For the respect of the tribals, for the self-respect of Jharkhand and for the protection of your water, forest and land, participate enthusiastically in this great festival of democracy, vote in large numbers and make India victorious," she said in a post on X.
08:55 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: First vote for Roti-Beti-Mati and then have refreshments, urges Amit Shah
"I appeal to all the voters going to vote in the first phase of Jharkhand to cast record votes for the creation of a corruption, infiltration and appeasement free and developed Jharkhand. Vote in large numbers for the protection of tribal identity, security of women and employment for the youth in Jharkhand. Today, first vote for Roti-Beti-Mati and then have refreshments," he said in a post on X.
Earlier today, PM Narendra Modi had also urged the voters in Jharkhand to cast their votes. "Today is the first round of voting in the Jharkhand assembly elections. I urge all voters to vote with full enthusiasm in this festival of democracy. On this occasion, my heartiest congratulations to all my young friends who are going to vote for the first time! Remember - first vote, then refreshment," he had said.
Earlier today, PM Narendra Modi had also urged the voters in Jharkhand to cast their votes. "Today is the first round of voting in the Jharkhand assembly elections. I urge all voters to vote with full enthusiasm in this festival of democracy. On this occasion, my heartiest congratulations to all my young friends who are going to vote for the first time! Remember - first vote, then refreshment," he had said.
08:50 (IST) Nov 13
Karnataka bypolls: Voting under way in 3 assembly seats
Voting for the by-polls in three Karnataka assembly constituencies—Shiggaon, Sandur, and Channapatna—began at 7am on Wednesday and will continue until 6pm, according to election officials. More than seven lakh voters are eligible to vote at around 770 polling stations across these constituencies, where a total of 45 candidates are competing.
The by-polls were necessitated after the respective MLAs—E Tukaram of Congress, former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai of the BJP, and Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy of JD(S)—were elected to the Lok Sabha in the May elections. In Channapatna, 31 candidates are in the race, while Sandur and Shiggaon have six and eight contenders, respectively.
To ensure the smooth conduct of the elections, extensive security arrangements have been made across all three constituencies.
The by-polls were necessitated after the respective MLAs—E Tukaram of Congress, former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai of the BJP, and Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy of JD(S)—were elected to the Lok Sabha in the May elections. In Channapatna, 31 candidates are in the race, while Sandur and Shiggaon have six and eight contenders, respectively.
To ensure the smooth conduct of the elections, extensive security arrangements have been made across all three constituencies.
08:44 (IST) Nov 13
Madhya Pradesh bypolls: Voting underway in Budhni and Vijaypur
Voters in Madhya Pradesh cast their ballots on Wednesday in the by-elections for the Budhni and Vijaypur assembly seats, according to a senior election official. The bypolls for the Vijaypur and Budhni assembly seats in Madhya Pradesh were triggered by significant political changes. The Vijaypur bypoll became necessary after Congress MLA Ramniwas Rawat switched to the BJP and was appointed a minister in the Mohan Yadav cabinet. In Budhni, the bypoll was required following the election of sitting MLA and former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to the Lok Sabha.
For the Budhni seat, the BJP has fielded Ramakant Bhargava, a loyalist of Chouhan and former Vidisha MP, who will contest against Congress' former state minister Rajkumar Patel. In Vijaypur, Ramniwas Rawat, the state's Forest Minister, is running on the BJP ticket against Congress' Mukesh Malhotra, a prominent tribal leader.
The Vijaypur constituency has a total of 2,54,817 registered voters, including 1,33,581 men, 1,21,131 women, and 103 service voters.
For the Budhni seat, the BJP has fielded Ramakant Bhargava, a loyalist of Chouhan and former Vidisha MP, who will contest against Congress' former state minister Rajkumar Patel. In Vijaypur, Ramniwas Rawat, the state's Forest Minister, is running on the BJP ticket against Congress' Mukesh Malhotra, a prominent tribal leader.
The Vijaypur constituency has a total of 2,54,817 registered voters, including 1,33,581 men, 1,21,131 women, and 103 service voters.
08:34 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: Congress candidate from Jamshedpur East Ajoy Kumar casts his vote
"I have received immense love from the people of Jamshedpur. Good reports are coming from everywhere...The workers here have encouraged us...For 30 years, the empire of a family has been continuing here, against which we are fighting and we will continue to fight that battle," he said.
08:11 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: Governor Santosh Gangwar casts his vote in Ranchi
07:58 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: NDA candidate from Jamshedpur West Saryu Roy (JDU) cast his vote
Addressing the reporters after casting the vote, Roy said, "Results on November 23 will tell what will happen. We hope that there will be a change and NDA government will be formed in the state." He is contesting against Congress leader Banna Gupta.
07:40 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: '13 November ke bade Diwali', watch as woman plays traditional drum appealing people to vote
07:19 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: 'Remember - first vote, then refreshment!', PM Modi's urge to first time voters
"Today is the first round of voting in the Jharkhand assembly elections. I urge all voters to vote with full enthusiasm in this festival of democracy. On this occasion, my heartiest congratulations to all my young friends who are going to vote for the first time! Remember - first vote, then refreshment!" he said in a post on X.
07:15 (IST) Nov 13
Rajasthan bypolls: Voting begins for seven assembly seats in Rajasthan
Voting for the by-elections in seven Rajasthan assembly constituencies began at 7am on Wednesday, with tight security measures in place, officials reported. The constituencies going to the polls are Jhunjhunu, Dausa, Deoli-Uniara, Khinvsar, Chorasi, Salumber, and Ramgarh, with results set to be announced on November 23.
A total of 69 candidates—10 women and 59 men—are contesting across these seven seats, which collectively have 19.37 lakh registered voters. To ensure the election process runs smoothly, over 9,000 security personnel have been deployed to secure 1,914 polling stations.
Currently, Rajasthan’s 200-seat assembly includes 114 MLAs from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), 65 from the Congress, three from the Bharat Adivasi Party (BAP), two from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), one from the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), and eight Independent MLAs.
A total of 69 candidates—10 women and 59 men—are contesting across these seven seats, which collectively have 19.37 lakh registered voters. To ensure the election process runs smoothly, over 9,000 security personnel have been deployed to secure 1,914 polling stations.
Currently, Rajasthan’s 200-seat assembly includes 114 MLAs from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), 65 from the Congress, three from the Bharat Adivasi Party (BAP), two from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), one from the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), and eight Independent MLAs.
07:12 (IST) Nov 13
Wayanad bypolls: Voting in Wayanad begins
Polling begins for the Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll where AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi is making her electoral debut. She is contesting against LDF's Sathyan Mokeri and NDA's Navya Haridas.
07:11 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: First phase of voting on 43 seats begins
First phase of polling on 43 seats on Jharkhand began on Wednesday at 7am. Ahead of the voting, election officials carried out mock polling at several polling stations across the state. The mock exercise, which started at approximately 5.30am, was conducted to ensure the readiness of the polling equipment and procedures.
"We started the mock poll from 5:30 am. Our agents are here. We are fully prepared, and all voters are welcome," said presiding officer Nitasha at polling booth number 291, speaking to ANI.
"We started the mock poll from 5:30 am. Our agents are here. We are fully prepared, and all voters are welcome," said presiding officer Nitasha at polling booth number 291, speaking to ANI.
06:55 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: Political leaders who are not voters will have to go out of voting constituency during polling: Jharkhand Chief Electoral Officer
Ahead of the first phase of polling in Jharkhand, state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) K Ravi Kumar said that all political workers including political leaders who are not the voters will not be present at the voting constituency during the polling process.
Ravi Kumar says, "All political workers including political leaders who are not the voters will have to go out of the voting constituency. No exemptions to this. Voters should not take pictures inside the booth as happened last time. Clicking selfies with EVMs and inside booths is a criminal offence. Within the 200 meters of the booth, no posters or banners will be allowed. Apart from voter cards, there are 12 other identification cards which can be used for voting. For NRI voters passport is a must."
Ravi Kumar says, "All political workers including political leaders who are not the voters will have to go out of the voting constituency. No exemptions to this. Voters should not take pictures inside the booth as happened last time. Clicking selfies with EVMs and inside booths is a criminal offence. Within the 200 meters of the booth, no posters or banners will be allowed. Apart from voter cards, there are 12 other identification cards which can be used for voting. For NRI voters passport is a must."
06:35 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: No mention of Bangladeshi influx in BJP ally AJSU’s manifesto
Jharkhand’s Ajsu Party unveiled its manifesto (Sakalp Patra) Friday for the assembly polls but a conspicuous omission among its 30 commitments was alleged Bangladeshi infiltration — the main poll plank of its NDA ally BJP.
CM Hemant Soren’s JMM seized on the missing mention, alleging Ajsu-P has “huge differences” with BJP on other key matters, too. Ajsu-P insisted, however, its promises were endorsed by NDA partners.
Ajsu-P chief Sudesh Mahto stressed at the manifesto launch that his party’s “resolutions are based on local aspirations of the people of Jharkhand” and cover a range of sections, including youths, women, farmers and the poor.
CM Hemant Soren’s JMM seized on the missing mention, alleging Ajsu-P has “huge differences” with BJP on other key matters, too. Ajsu-P insisted, however, its promises were endorsed by NDA partners.
Ajsu-P chief Sudesh Mahto stressed at the manifesto launch that his party’s “resolutions are based on local aspirations of the people of Jharkhand” and cover a range of sections, including youths, women, farmers and the poor.
06:14 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: Congress misleading people by promising caste census, says Rajnath
Defence minister Rajnath Singh criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for promising a caste census if the party comes to power, accusing Congress of misleading the public. Singh questioned why the caste census was not conducted when the Congress party governed the country for decades.
Addressing a rally in Khunti, Singh claimed that the law and order situation in Jharkhand had worsened due to illegal infiltration from Bangladesh, which he said had been facilitated under the patronage of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM).
"In 2011, a socio-economic caste census was conducted, which identified nearly 46 lakh castes, sub-castes, and gotras. The findings were so extensive that the report was never made public. According to the Ministry of Social Welfare, the census included around 1,200 Scheduled Castes, more than 750 Scheduled Tribes, and about 2,500 Other Backward Castes," Singh said.
Turning his attention to Rahul Gandhi's promise of a caste census, Singh accused the Congress of attempting to exploit caste divisions for political gain. "A Congress leader is misleading the people by claiming a caste census if they win. I want to ask Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge about the party’s plans for the welfare of these thousands of castes. What steps will they take for reservations?" Singh said.
He also alleged a rise in the influx of Bangladeshi nationals into Jharkhand, claiming that the situation had deteriorated so much in the state that cultural events like 'Saraswati Vandana' were being disrupted and stone pelting occurred during festivals.
Addressing a rally in Khunti, Singh claimed that the law and order situation in Jharkhand had worsened due to illegal infiltration from Bangladesh, which he said had been facilitated under the patronage of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM).
"In 2011, a socio-economic caste census was conducted, which identified nearly 46 lakh castes, sub-castes, and gotras. The findings were so extensive that the report was never made public. According to the Ministry of Social Welfare, the census included around 1,200 Scheduled Castes, more than 750 Scheduled Tribes, and about 2,500 Other Backward Castes," Singh said.
Turning his attention to Rahul Gandhi's promise of a caste census, Singh accused the Congress of attempting to exploit caste divisions for political gain. "A Congress leader is misleading the people by claiming a caste census if they win. I want to ask Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge about the party’s plans for the welfare of these thousands of castes. What steps will they take for reservations?" Singh said.
He also alleged a rise in the influx of Bangladeshi nationals into Jharkhand, claiming that the situation had deteriorated so much in the state that cultural events like 'Saraswati Vandana' were being disrupted and stone pelting occurred during festivals.
05:56 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: PM Modi says Congress, JMM out to snatch rights of tribals, Dalits & OBCs
Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress of perpetuating a "divide-and-rule" strategy for decades, which, he said, lies at the heart of the JMM-led coalition's efforts to retain power in Jharkhand while undermining the rights of tribals, Dalits, and OBCs. Speaking at twin campaign rallies in Gumla and Bokaro, Modi claimed that Congress has always sought to keep OBCs divided to maintain its political survival, and since 1990, it has focused on dividing the country along caste lines to create division among SC, ST, and OBC communities.
In his address in Gumla, a tribal-majority area, the Prime Minister said, “Congress governed the country post-Independence by keeping OBCs divided. Now, they want to break the unity of SC, ST, and OBC communities, pitting one against the other. Ek rahenge toh safe rahenge (If we are united, we will be safe).”
Modi also branded both Congress and its ally, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), as "anti-tribal," accusing the ruling coalition, which includes RJD and CPI-ML, of looting Jharkhand's natural resources for personal gain. He alleged that the coalition even took bribes for basic administrative tasks like issuing birth and death certificates.
“The Congress cannot tolerate tribals in high positions,” Modi said, highlighting their opposition to the elevation of Droupadi Murmu as President. He also pointed out the removal of former Chief Minister Champai Soren by the current government.
During his visit to Ranchi, the Prime Minister held a 3-km roadshow from the OTC ground to Ratu Road, where he further criticized the Hemant Soren government for allegedly supporting recruitment exam paper leaks, depriving deserving youth in the state of opportunities.
In his address in Gumla, a tribal-majority area, the Prime Minister said, “Congress governed the country post-Independence by keeping OBCs divided. Now, they want to break the unity of SC, ST, and OBC communities, pitting one against the other. Ek rahenge toh safe rahenge (If we are united, we will be safe).”
Modi also branded both Congress and its ally, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), as "anti-tribal," accusing the ruling coalition, which includes RJD and CPI-ML, of looting Jharkhand's natural resources for personal gain. He alleged that the coalition even took bribes for basic administrative tasks like issuing birth and death certificates.
“The Congress cannot tolerate tribals in high positions,” Modi said, highlighting their opposition to the elevation of Droupadi Murmu as President. He also pointed out the removal of former Chief Minister Champai Soren by the current government.
During his visit to Ranchi, the Prime Minister held a 3-km roadshow from the OTC ground to Ratu Road, where he further criticized the Hemant Soren government for allegedly supporting recruitment exam paper leaks, depriving deserving youth in the state of opportunities.
05:42 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: Focus on youth, women and tribals in JMM’s ‘Adhikar Patra’
JMM patriarch Shibu Soren, who had previously stayed out of the electoral campaign, made a significant appearance to release the party’s manifesto, Adhikar Patra, with the slogan "Ek Hi Naara, Hemant Dobara" (One slogan, Hemant again). While the party had earlier released a joint manifesto with Congress and RJD, Adhikar Patra presents the JMM's distinct stance on several key issues, including employment, social security, women's rights, and flagship schemes.
The manifesto reiterated the party’s commitment to increasing reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in government jobs from 14% to 27%. It also promised 28% reservation for Scheduled Tribes (STs) and 12% for Scheduled Castes (SCs). Additionally, the JMM vowed to provide 33% reservation for women in government positions.
On economic issues, the manifesto proposed a reduction in LPG cylinder prices to Rs 450 and pledged to raise the monthly financial assistance under the Maiya Samman Yojana for eligible women to Rs 2,500.
Focusing on employment, the JMM released a department-wise plan to create two lakh jobs for the youth. The party also promised to cancel the previous government's land bank scheme and instead issue land titles to the landless. Furthermore, the manifesto proposed the issuance of caste and residential certificates to individuals without land records within six months of taking office.
The manifesto reiterated the party’s commitment to increasing reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in government jobs from 14% to 27%. It also promised 28% reservation for Scheduled Tribes (STs) and 12% for Scheduled Castes (SCs). Additionally, the JMM vowed to provide 33% reservation for women in government positions.
On economic issues, the manifesto proposed a reduction in LPG cylinder prices to Rs 450 and pledged to raise the monthly financial assistance under the Maiya Samman Yojana for eligible women to Rs 2,500.
Focusing on employment, the JMM released a department-wise plan to create two lakh jobs for the youth. The party also promised to cancel the previous government's land bank scheme and instead issue land titles to the landless. Furthermore, the manifesto proposed the issuance of caste and residential certificates to individuals without land records within six months of taking office.
05:28 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: ‘Daroge toh maroge,’ Kharge tells voters as campaign for Jharkhand phase-1 poll ends
Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP's campaign slogans — “Eh rahoge toh safe rahoge” (Stay united, and you’ll be safe) and “Batoge toh katoge” (Divided, you’ll be destroyed) — Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge fired back on Monday with his own slogan, “Daroge toh maroge” (If you get scared, you’re dead), accusing the saffron party and its leaders of trying to polarize voters ahead of the Jharkhand elections.
Addressing the Prime Minister’s allegations against the Hemant Soren-led Jharkhand government, Kharge said, “Modi and his government are against OBCs, SCs, and STs. They reduced the reservation quota in Jharkhand in the past. On the other hand, our government passed a resolution to increase the reservation limits in the state assembly and sent the proposal to the governor. But the governor has yet to act on it.”
Kharge, who was addressing a rally in support of Congress candidate Radha Krishan Kishore at Chatterpur and other INDIA alliance candidates in the Palamu-Latehar region, also criticized Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He said, "The BJP believes in coming to power through divisive politics and fear-mongering. Yogi-ji visited here recently. He is the head of a 'math' and wears the attire of sadhus. But sadhus should be compassionate and unite people to protect humanity. Instead, he said, 'Batoge toh katoge.' Now, you must understand that 'Daroge toh maroge.'
Addressing the Prime Minister’s allegations against the Hemant Soren-led Jharkhand government, Kharge said, “Modi and his government are against OBCs, SCs, and STs. They reduced the reservation quota in Jharkhand in the past. On the other hand, our government passed a resolution to increase the reservation limits in the state assembly and sent the proposal to the governor. But the governor has yet to act on it.”
Kharge, who was addressing a rally in support of Congress candidate Radha Krishan Kishore at Chatterpur and other INDIA alliance candidates in the Palamu-Latehar region, also criticized Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He said, "The BJP believes in coming to power through divisive politics and fear-mongering. Yogi-ji visited here recently. He is the head of a 'math' and wears the attire of sadhus. But sadhus should be compassionate and unite people to protect humanity. Instead, he said, 'Batoge toh katoge.' Now, you must understand that 'Daroge toh maroge.'
05:07 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: JMM promises 33% job reservation to women in its manifesto
Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) released its manifesto for the upcoming assembly elections making several key promises, including a 33% reservation for women in state government jobs. The manifesto, unveiled by party president Shibu Soren, outlines a comprehensive vision focused on nine key areas, including agriculture, education, and the rights of local residents.
“We are committed to ensuring 33% reservation for women in all state government jobs. Our manifesto highlights nine major points that will drive our agenda for the state’s progress,” said JMM spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya.
Among other promises, the manifesto includes provisions for providing loans of up to Rs 5 crore to MSME entrepreneurs under the Credit Guarantee Scheme. It also pledges to waive loans for small and medium-scale traders, as well as to establish sports centres of excellence in every division and a dedicated sports university in the state.
“We are committed to ensuring 33% reservation for women in all state government jobs. Our manifesto highlights nine major points that will drive our agenda for the state’s progress,” said JMM spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya.
Among other promises, the manifesto includes provisions for providing loans of up to Rs 5 crore to MSME entrepreneurs under the Credit Guarantee Scheme. It also pledges to waive loans for small and medium-scale traders, as well as to establish sports centres of excellence in every division and a dedicated sports university in the state.
05:06 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: ED seizes fake Aadhaar cards, passports, illegal weapons, and property documents
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized fake Aadhaar cards, passports, illegal weapons, and property documents as part of an investigation into illegal infiltration from Bangladesh in poll-bound Jharkhand and West Bengal. Earlier in the day, ED officials conducted raids across multiple locations in both states, targeting money laundering activities connected to the suspected unlawful entry of Bangladeshi nationals. The ED’s Jharkhand office is reportedly investigating 17 locations across the two states.
The probe, launched under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in September, focuses on the alleged trafficking of Bangladeshi women into Jharkhand, which, according to the agency, may have been generating illicit funds. The investigation comes amid heightened political rhetoric, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders accusing the state government of allowing such infiltration, which they claim has disrupted the demographic balance, particularly in the tribal regions of Santhal Pargana and Kolhan.
The Assembly elections in Jharkhand are scheduled to take place in two phases, with voting for 43 seats set for Wednesday and for 38 seats on November 20. The ED’s Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), filed under various PMLA provisions, is linked to a previous FIR registered by Jharkhand Police at Ranchi’s Bariyatu police station in June.
The probe, launched under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in September, focuses on the alleged trafficking of Bangladeshi women into Jharkhand, which, according to the agency, may have been generating illicit funds. The investigation comes amid heightened political rhetoric, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders accusing the state government of allowing such infiltration, which they claim has disrupted the demographic balance, particularly in the tribal regions of Santhal Pargana and Kolhan.
The Assembly elections in Jharkhand are scheduled to take place in two phases, with voting for 43 seats set for Wednesday and for 38 seats on November 20. The ED’s Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), filed under various PMLA provisions, is linked to a previous FIR registered by Jharkhand Police at Ranchi’s Bariyatu police station in June.
05:06 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: 683 candidates in fray in the first phase of elections
The campaign for the first phase of Jharkhand’s Assembly elections came to a close on Monday, ahead of voting on November 13. The elections will be held in two phases, with the first phase covering 43 constituencies. A total of 15,344 booths have been set up across the state to facilitate voting. The results will be declared on November 23.
Among these 43 seats, six are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC), 20 for Scheduled Tribes (ST), and 17 are general seats. A total of 683 candidates, including former Chief Minister Champai Soren and six current cabinet ministers from the Hemant Soren-led government, will be contesting in this phase.
In the 2019 Assembly elections, the contest was close, with the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) winning 30 seats and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) securing 25, a significant drop from 37 seats in 2014. The JMM-Congress-RJD alliance emerged victorious with a comfortable majority, winning 47 seats.
Among these 43 seats, six are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC), 20 for Scheduled Tribes (ST), and 17 are general seats. A total of 683 candidates, including former Chief Minister Champai Soren and six current cabinet ministers from the Hemant Soren-led government, will be contesting in this phase.
In the 2019 Assembly elections, the contest was close, with the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) winning 30 seats and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) securing 25, a significant drop from 37 seats in 2014. The JMM-Congress-RJD alliance emerged victorious with a comfortable majority, winning 47 seats.
05:06 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: BJP's anti-infiltration campaign reaches fever point
The BJP's anti-infiltration campaign in Jharkhand reached a fever pitch on the final day of campaigning for the first phase of voting, set for November 13 in 43 assembly seats. Union Home Minister Amit Shah vowed to introduce new legislation aimed at preventing the transfer of land to infiltrators, particularly targeting those who marry tribal women. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath used his trademark rhetoric, combining his "Batenge to katenge" warning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s slogan "Ek rahoge to safe rahoge," urging the public to remain united.
Adityanath also accused the Hemant Soren-led government of turning the state into a "dharmashala" (shelter) for Rohingyas and Bangladeshi infiltrators. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, a key strategist behind the BJP’s Jharkhand campaign, leveled accusations against the JMM-led coalition for allegedly "patronizing infiltrators." He claimed that this election is being fought to oust illegal immigrants and safeguard the interests of Hindus. Sarma further called Hemant Soren the "spokesperson of Bangladeshi infiltrators" and labeled the ruling JMM as a party of infiltrators.
Sarma also referenced census data to support his claims, stating, "In the past, around 90% of the population was Hindu, with 9.43% Muslim. The tribal population in the Santhal Pargana region was 10.34 lakh, making up 44% of the total Hindu population. By the 2011 Census, the Hindu population had dropped to 67%, while the tribal population had decreased to 28% in the region."
Adityanath also accused the Hemant Soren-led government of turning the state into a "dharmashala" (shelter) for Rohingyas and Bangladeshi infiltrators. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, a key strategist behind the BJP’s Jharkhand campaign, leveled accusations against the JMM-led coalition for allegedly "patronizing infiltrators." He claimed that this election is being fought to oust illegal immigrants and safeguard the interests of Hindus. Sarma further called Hemant Soren the "spokesperson of Bangladeshi infiltrators" and labeled the ruling JMM as a party of infiltrators.
Sarma also referenced census data to support his claims, stating, "In the past, around 90% of the population was Hindu, with 9.43% Muslim. The tribal population in the Santhal Pargana region was 10.34 lakh, making up 44% of the total Hindu population. By the 2011 Census, the Hindu population had dropped to 67%, while the tribal population had decreased to 28% in the region."
05:05 (IST) Nov 13
Jharkhand Election Phase 1 Live: Congress releases manifesto just a day before first phase of Jharkhand’s Assembly elections
Just a day before the first phase of Jharkhand’s Assembly elections, Congress unveiled its manifesto on Tuesday evening, making several key promises, including the creation of 10 lakh government jobs over the next five years. The manifesto also includes a pledge to provide a monthly allowance of Rs 5,000 to youth who have aged out of eligibility for government recruitment.
The document was released at a gathering at the state Congress office in Ranchi by the party’s manifesto committee chairman and former minister Bandhu Tirkey, along with MP Sukhdev Bhagat and other senior leaders. The announcement comes less than 24 hours before voters head to the polls in the first phase of the elections, which will cover 43 seats. Voting for the second phase, which will include 38 seats, is scheduled to take place on November 20.
Key promises in the Congress manifesto include implementing a local policy based on the 1932 Khatian, recognizing the Sarna dharma code, and promoting regional languages and culture. The manifesto also outlines several welfare initiatives, including the ‘Maiya Samman Yojana,’ which will provide a monthly payout of Rs 2,500 to women, starting in December 2024. The party has committed to a 28% quota for Scheduled Tribes, 12% for Scheduled Castes, and 27% for Other Backward Classes.
The document was released at a gathering at the state Congress office in Ranchi by the party’s manifesto committee chairman and former minister Bandhu Tirkey, along with MP Sukhdev Bhagat and other senior leaders. The announcement comes less than 24 hours before voters head to the polls in the first phase of the elections, which will cover 43 seats. Voting for the second phase, which will include 38 seats, is scheduled to take place on November 20.
Key promises in the Congress manifesto include implementing a local policy based on the 1932 Khatian, recognizing the Sarna dharma code, and promoting regional languages and culture. The manifesto also outlines several welfare initiatives, including the ‘Maiya Samman Yojana,’ which will provide a monthly payout of Rs 2,500 to women, starting in December 2024. The party has committed to a 28% quota for Scheduled Tribes, 12% for Scheduled Castes, and 27% for Other Backward Classes.
Ahead of voting, the Congress party unveiled its election manifesto yesterday evening, making a series of significant promises. These include the creation of 10 lakh government jobs over the next five years and a monthly allowance of Rs 5,000 for youth who have aged out of eligibility for government recruitment. Congress has also pledged to implement a local policy based on the 1932 Khatian, recognize the Sarna dharma code, and promote regional languages and culture. The manifesto also commits to increasing reservations for Scheduled Tribes (28%), Scheduled Castes (12%), and Other Backward Classes (27%).
As campaigning came to a close, BJP leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, ramped up their anti-infiltration rhetoric. Shah promised new legislation to prevent land transfers to infiltrators, while Adityanath accused the Hemant Soren government of turning Jharkhand into a haven for illegal immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma also attacked the JMM-led coalition, accusing them of "patronizing infiltrators" and threatening the state’s demographic balance.
Stay with TOI for live updates:
As campaigning came to a close, BJP leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, ramped up their anti-infiltration rhetoric. Shah promised new legislation to prevent land transfers to infiltrators, while Adityanath accused the Hemant Soren government of turning Jharkhand into a haven for illegal immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma also attacked the JMM-led coalition, accusing them of "patronizing infiltrators" and threatening the state’s demographic balance.
Stay with TOI for live updates:
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