PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Oct 21: The nomination process for the Ghatshila assembly by-election enters its final day, today, marking a crucial phase in the electoral calendar.
According to the schedule announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI), scrutiny of nomination papers will take place on October 22, while candidates will have the opportunity to withdraw their nominations until October 24.
The by-election, scheduled for November 11, was necessitated following the demise of sitting Ramdas Soren, whose passing left the constituency vacant.
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Ghatshila, a Scheduled Tribe (ST)-reserved seat in East Singhbhum district, holds strategic political importance in the Kolhan region, often seen as a bellwether for tribal sentiment in Jharkhand politics.
So far, a triangular contest appears to be shaping up, with major parties such as the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM).
The ruling JMM, part of the state’s coalition government, is expected to defend its turf, while the BJP is eyeing a comeback by mobilizing its tribal base and highlighting governance issues.
District Election Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi confirmed that all arrangements are in place for smooth conduct of the nomination and scrutiny process.
Security has been tightened around the Ghatsila Sub-Divisional Office, where nomination papers are being filed and verified.
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The model code of conduct remains in force across East Singhbhum, with the administration keeping a close watch on campaign activities and expenditure.
Following the withdrawal deadline, the final list of candidates will be published on October 24, paving the way for an intense three-way contest leading up to polling day.
Counting of votes will be held on December 3, along with other assembly and parliamentary by-polls across the country.
