Ghatshila Assembly by-election: One candidate withdraws nomination, 13 candidates to contest

 Jamshedpur: District Election Officer Karn Satyarthi announced the completion of all administrative and security arrangements for the 45-Ghatshila (ST) Assembly by-election, confirming that 13 candidates will contest following the withdrawal of one nomination. He assured that every measure is being taken to ensure a free, fair, transparent, and peaceful election, with strict surveillance, voter facilitation, and adherence to the Model Code of Conduct across the district.

Satyarthi addressed a press conference in the Collectorate auditorium on Friday to brief media representatives about the withdrawal of nominations, administrative preparedness, and ongoing enforcement actions for the 45-Ghatshila (ST) Assembly by-election.

He informed that on the last day for withdrawal of nominations, independent candidate Vikram Kisku withdrew his nomination. With this, the total number of candidates contesting the election now stands at thirteen (13). The Returning Officer will now allocate election symbols to all 13 candidates.

A total of 17 candidates (15 men and 2 women) had filed nominations for the by-election. After scrutiny, three nominations were rejected, and one candidate withdrew their nomination, leaving 13 candidates—12 men and 1 woman—in the electoral fray.

The District Election Officer stated that all administrative preparations have been completed to ensure the smooth, free, fair, transparent, and fearless conduct of the election. Following the special summary revision of the voter list, a total of 2,56,352 voters will exercise their franchise in the Ghatshila by-election.

He informed that the identification process of voters eligible for home voting and those unable to reach polling stations is underway. Under the SVEEP program, various activities are being conducted to educate and motivate voters and to increase voter turnout.

 Satyarthi urged all voters to exercise their right to vote without fear or hesitation, particularly appealing to young voters to participate actively and inspire their family members to do the same.

He further informed that assured minimum facilities have been ensured at all polling stations. The facility of home voting will be available in this by-election. Vehicles, wheelchairs, ramps, and volunteers will be provided for the convenience of voters with disabilities and senior citizens.

Regarding enforcement, the District Election Officer said that strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct and all related SOPs is being maintained across the district. Inter-state and inter-district check posts are under tight surveillance to prevent illegal movement of narcotics, liquor, cash, gifts, and anti-social elements. So far, materials, including cash, worth Rs. 237.73008 lakhs have been seized by various enforcement agencies.

He emphasized that constant monitoring is also being carried out on social media and other media platforms to check any violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

 Satyarthi concluded by appealing to all voters to participate in the democratic process with enthusiasm and to strengthen democracy by casting their vote responsibly.