Nominations starts for Ghatshila Assembly Seat, notification issued

Jamshedpur: A gazette notification and local notification for the 45-Ghatshila (ST) Assembly by-election were published on Monday, marking the formal commencement of the nomination process. On this occasion, District Election Officer (DEO)  Karn Satyarthi addressed a press conference in the Collectorate auditorium and shared detailed information regarding the schedule and procedures of the by-election.

Satyarthi informed that candidates can purchase nomination forms from the Sub-Divisional Office, Ghatshila, between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, and the same timing will apply for filing nomination papers. The nomination process began on October 13, 2025, and will continue till October 21, 2025.  Sunil Chandra, Sub-Divisional Officer, Ghatshila, has been designated as the Returning Officer for the 45-Ghatshila (ST) Assembly constituency.

The District Election Officer stated that after the announcement of the by-election on October 6, the district administration has been strictly observing all provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by the Election Commission of India. He emphasized that all administrative preparations have been completed to ensure that the by-election is conducted in a free, fair, transparent, and fear-free manner.

Highlighting changes introduced by the Election Commission,  Satyarthi mentioned that the ballot paper on the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will now display candidates’ names, serial numbers, and color photographs in bold for the convenience of voters. The modification is being implemented as per the latest guidelines of the Election Commission.

Under the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program, awareness campaigns and voter motivation drives are being organized to ensure maximum voter turnout. In addition, inter-state and inter-district checkposts are under strict surveillance to curb the movement of illegal cash, liquor, drugs, and other inducements during the election period.

The DEO also informed that all polling stations are being equipped with Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) such as drinking water, toilets, electricity, and ramps. Home voting provisions will be available for eligible senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Arrangements of vehicles, wheelchairs, ramps, and volunteers will be made to assist such voters in exercising their franchise.

Satyarthi further stated that the administration is maintaining strict vigilance on social media platforms and news channels to detect and act promptly against any violations of the Model Code of Conduct. He appealed to political parties, candidates, and voters to cooperate in ensuring a peaceful and fair election process.