Ranchi: The Jharkhand government has declared a public holiday on February 23 in view of the Urban Local Body (ULB) elections. The decision has been taken to facilitate smooth, free, and fair polling across the municipal areas of the state.
According to an official order, all government offices, public sector undertakings, educational institutions, and other establishments under the state government falling within the jurisdictions where polling is scheduled will remain closed on the day of voting.
The holiday will enable voters to exercise their franchise without inconvenience. The State Election Commission has made elaborate arrangements to ensure the peaceful conduct of elections in various municipal corporations, municipal councils, and nagar panchayats.
Security personnel will be deployed at sensitive and hyper-sensitive polling stations, and strict monitoring mechanisms have been put in place to maintain law and order. Officials have urged citizens to participate enthusiastically in the democratic process and cast their votes responsibly. Special provisions have also been made to assist senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups to ensure inclusive participation.
The Urban Local Body elections are considered significant for grassroots governance, as elected representatives will be entrusted with urban development, civic infrastructure management, sanitation, and implementation of various welfare schemes at the municipal level.
Further details regarding polling timings and model code of conduct compliance have been communicated to the district administrations concerned.
