PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Oct 16: The political temperature in Ghatshila is set to soar on October 17, as both the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will demonstrate their strength on the same day during the nomination process of their respective candidates for the Ghatshila assembly by-election.
JMM candidate Somesh Soren, backed by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, will file his nomination papers amid a massive rally at Dahigoda Circus Ground.
The Chief Minister is expected to arrive by helicopter around noon to address the gathering and energize party workers.
Meanwhile, the BJP is set to make its own show of force, with party candidate Babulal Soren scheduled to file his nomination on the same day.
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Senior BJP leaders from the state are expected to accompany him, signalling the party’s intent to reclaim the seat.
With both major parties choosing the same day for nomination, a massive turnout of supporters and heightened political activity is anticipated in the region.
To maintain law and order, the district administration has enforced strict security measures, deploying additional police personnel and setting up barricades along key routes in Ghatshila town.
A route plan for processions and traffic restrictions is being finalized to prevent congestion and avoid clashes between rival supporters.
The Ghatshila by-election, which was necessitated following the demise of Ramdas Soren.
It is emerging as a prestige battle for both JMM and BJP, as it will test their grassroots reach ahead of the upcoming state assembly polls.
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“Both parties have been instructed to adhere to the model code of conduct and maintain peace during rallies,” said an official of East Singhbhum district administration.
The nomination day on October 17 is expected to mark the formal beginning of an intense electoral contest in the tribal-dominated constituency, with issues of development, employment, and local identity likely to dominate the campaign narrative.
