Singhbhum Lok Sabha seat in Jharkhand is set to witness a historic moment in the upcoming elections. Many interior areas, previously inaccessible due to Maoist insurgency, will experience voting for the first time or after decades-long gaps. The administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure every eligible voter can exercise their franchise.
To reach the remote regions of Saranda, known for its dense Sal forest, polling teams and materials will be air-dropped from helicopters. A total of 118 polling booths will be established in these challenging locations. The move aims to counter the impact of Maoist activities that have plagued these areas.
West Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner cum District Election Officer, Kuldeep Chaudhary, expressed the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and reaching previously neglected areas. The district has been one of the worst affected by left-wing extremism, witnessing numerous incidents and casualties in the past year.
In addition to airdropping, polling parties will also utilize trains and roads to access polling stations. The process involves meticulous planning, with dry runs conducted for smooth execution. The administration has also made special arrangements for elderly voters above 100 years, individuals above 85 years, and persons with disabilities, ensuring they have the option of home voting.
Innovative measures have been undertaken to raise awareness about the importance of voting. A giant sky balloon has been erected, and 1,284 ‘Chunav Pathshala’ (election schools) have been established under the Systematic Voter’s Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative.
Singhbhum constituency, reserved for Scheduled Tribes, has a significant voter population, with a focus on empowering women voters. The Lok Sabha polls in Jharkhand will be held in multiple phases, starting on May 13. The outcome of these elections will be crucial for the representation of the region in the parliament.
