Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, Nov 14: Voters in Jharkhand’s Khunti and Torpa assembly constituencies, once heavily affected by extremism and the Pathalgadi movement, turned out in large numbers to cast their ballots. Residents, many of whom once avoided leaving their homes due to fear of extremist violence in a remarkable show of democratic spirit, gathered fearlessly at polling stations across dense forest areas and rural locations on Wednesday.
Polling booths in both constituencies saw long queues early in the morning, with many stations clearing out by afternoon as voters completed the process efficiently. At the Government Upgraded Middle School in Jagu, Torpa, where 717 voters were registered, polling had mostly wrapped up by 2 p.m. Similarly, the booths in Khunti were mostly empty by late afternoon, with the majority of ballots cast by then.
In recent years, intensified security efforts and the arrest of key extremist leaders, including PLFI leader Dinesh Gop, have restored a sense of safety in these areas. This peace has allowed villagers to pursue economic activities and send their children to schools, which in many cases are located several kilometers away. Residents expressed optimism about future development, with hopes for improved local education and infrastructure.
By the end of polling, Khunti recorded a voter turnout of 69.53 percent, while Torpa reached 67.03 percent, capturing the fates of 11 candidates in Khunti and 12 in Torpa. Local residents now look to their elected leaders to continue fostering growth and stability in the region. This high voter turnout not only underscores the strength of democracy but also highlights the resilience and commitment of a community that has triumphed over fear to make its voice heard.
