As of 9 am, Jharkhand recorded a voter turnout of 13.04% in the first phase of its Assembly Elections, according to the Election Commission of India. Voting began Wednesday morning across 43 of the state’s 81 seats, with districts like Simdega leading the turnout at 15.09%, followed by Lohardaga and Koderma at 14.97%. Other areas reported similar engagement, with Seraikella-Kharsawan at 14.62%, Ramgarh and Khunti at 14.37%, and Ranchi, the capital, at 12.06%. East Singhbhum had the lowest turnout at 11.25%.
To ensure security, Jharkhand Police deployed drones for surveillance in Ranchi. Union Minister Annapurna Devi and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh both cast their votes and encouraged citizens to participate in the “great festival of democracy.” Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar also urged voters to make wise decisions and turn out in large numbers.
Voting spans across 43 constituencies in 15 districts, involving 683 candidates, including 73 women. The BJP-led NDA is aiming to replace the JMM-led coalition, with notable candidates like former Chief Minister Champai Soren (BJP) and Congress leader Ajoy Kumar in key races. Polling continues until 5 pm, with a 4 pm close for 950 sensitive booths. Votes will be counted on November 23.