Shibu Soren’s absence first in Jharkhand elections, shorter campaign, unique records

Shankar Agrawal

Jamshedpur, Nov 14: The 2024 Jharkhand assembly elections are notable for several firsts, marking a shift in the state’s political landscape. For the first time since the state’s formation, the elections are being held without the presence of Dishom Guru Shibu Soren. Known for his strong influence, Soren’s absence is felt, as advancing age and poor health have kept him away from the campaign trail. While his image adorns banners and posters, he has not appeared at rallies or public events. The responsibility for campaigning now rests with his son, Chief Minister Hemant Soren, and his wife, Kalpana Soren.

This election also features the shortest campaigning period in the state’s history. First phase election concluded peacefully on November 13. The second and last phase will be held on November 20.

In contrast, previous elections were held throughout multiple phases, with the 2005 election taking 21 days, the 2009 election spanning 22 days, and the 2014 and 2019 elections lasting 26 days each. The rapid voting process this time is set to complete within eight days, making it the quickest election cycle in Jharkhand’s history.

Another unique feature of this election is the continued participation of candidates who have contested from various political parties over the years. Radhakrishna Kishore, for example, has made history by contesting from Chhatarpur Assembly constituency on different party tickets in every election since 2005. He began with the JD(U) ticket, then contested from Congress in 2009, BJP in 2014, and AJSU in 2019.

Additionally, there are several leaders who have stood in every assembly election, including prominent figures like Ramchandra Chandravanshi, Stephen Marandi, CP Singh, and Sudesh Mahato, further adding to the unique nature of this year’s election. These shifts and changes indicate a significant transformation in the electoral dynamics of Jharkhand.