Nomination Process Commences for Jharkhand Urban Local Body Elections
The nomination window for the upcoming February 23 elections to the 48 urban local bodies across Jharkhand officially opened on Thursday, marking the beginning of the electoral process in the state. This significant phase has witnessed early activity in key urban centers, particularly Ranchi and Dhanbad, where aspirants have started making their intentions clear.
Ranchi: Early Interest with No Submissions on Day One
In the state capital, Ranchi, the nomination process saw considerable interest from potential candidates, though no forms were actually submitted on the inaugural day. According to an official from the Ranchi district administration, six aspirants for the prestigious post of Ranchi mayor purchased their nomination forms. Additionally, 211 others acquired forms for the positions of 53 ward councillors under the Ranchi Municipal Corporation.
The official noted that "No forms were submitted on the first day," indicating that candidates are likely taking time to prepare their paperwork. Among the wards, ward number 34, which includes localities such as Ganga Nagar, Vidya Nagar, parts of Hehal-Dhelatoli, Tangra Toli, and Patartoli, recorded the highest activity with 14 forms purchased. In contrast, no forms were purchased for ward 17 and ward 19, highlighting varying levels of interest across different areas.
In a related development, for the Bundu Nagar Panchayat, no nomination papers were sold or filed for the post on Thursday. However, five nomination papers were purchased for the positions of ward councillors, showing some engagement even in smaller urban bodies.
The nomination window is set to close on February 4, with scrutiny of the submitted papers scheduled for February 5. This timeline gives candidates a brief period to finalize their nominations and campaign strategies.
Dhanbad: Former Mayor Leads the Charge with Early Filing
In Dhanbad, the nomination process for the Dhanbad Municipal Corporation elections kicked off on a high note, with former mayor Chandrashekhar Agrawal making a significant move by filing his nomination papers. Agrawal's entry has added a dynamic element to the elections, as he is a well-known figure in the region.
On the opening day, besides Agrawal, a total of 21 nomination forms were purchased by various candidates, reflecting early enthusiasm among aspirants. Agrawal's nomination filing was a public affair; he reached the district collectorate to purchase his nomination papers amidst a large gathering of supporters, showcasing his strong local backing.
Following the purchase, Agrawal led a vibrant rally that passed through Dhanbad's prominent localities, including Naya Bazaar, Rajendra Sarovar, and City Centre. The procession culminated at Memco More, from where Agrawal and his supporters walked to the district collectorate to formally file the nomination, turning the event into a public demonstration of support.
In a confident statement, an upbeat Agrawal highlighted his previous achievements, saying, "It was during my term that Dhanbad received Jharkhand's first eight-lane road. That apart, water supply, sanitation systems, and hygiene improved during my time. The people of Dhanbad would once again give him the opportunity to serve." His remarks underscore his campaign focus on development and past contributions to the city.
Campaign Activities Gain Momentum in Ranchi
Meanwhile, in Ranchi, aspirants have not limited themselves to just purchasing nomination forms. Campaign activities have already begun to gain momentum across various wards. Banners, posters, and flexes have been put up across localities, signaling the start of a competitive electoral season. This early campaigning suggests that candidates are keen to establish their presence and connect with voters well ahead of the polling date.
As the nomination process continues until February 4, all eyes are on how many candidates will formally enter the fray and what issues will dominate the upcoming urban local body elections in Jharkhand. The early activities in Ranchi and Dhanbad set the stage for what promises to be an engaging and closely watched electoral contest.
