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Why AAP-ruled Delhi gives all Lok Sabha seats to BJP?

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Manoj Kumar Pathak

In the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, let us ponder over the electoral mood of the national capital’s voters. The Emerging World’s analysis of all the recently held pre-poll surveys suggests all seven Delhi seats would go to the BJP if elections were held today. Now the question arises, Why do Delhi seats go to the BJP despite the AAP winning the Assembly polls decisively? Why does a state that has overwhelmingly voted for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in two consecutive Assembly polls give all the Lok Sabha seats to the BJP? Experts say there are several factors at play.


The AAP made its debut in the 2013 Delhi election and managed to get 28 of the 70 Assembly seats. It formed a government in alliance with the Congress that didn’t last a full five-year term. In the elections of 2015 and 2020, the AAP won 67 and 62 seats, respectively.
The BJP, however, won all the seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi in both 2014 and 2019. Despite a would-be Congress-AAP alliance, the pre-poll surveys show the BJP getting 57% of the vote share in Delhi. The AAP-Congress coalition if materializes, which would fare well in Punjab, fails to dent the BJP’s seats in Delhi.


“Punjab’s demographic composition is different from Delhi’s. It has always had an uneasy relationship with the Centre, even when the Congress party was in power in the 1970s and 80s,” Piyush Gautam, a poll analyst said. “This alliance [between the Congress and the AAP] in both Delhi and Punjab is not easy. Because in Punjab, AAP feels that they can gain these seats even without the Congress. So, you have seen the CM of Punjab making statements that we don’t need to have an alliance. And in Delhi, even if they come together, they will not be able to make any dent,” adds Gautam.


Why do two states give such different results with the same combination? One of the factors is different voting patterns in Assembly and parliamentary elections. “It’s a split vote, and it’s happening across India, across all the states. Every state, if you look into the vote share of the last assembly and the last Lok Sabha, you will see somewhere between 10% to 25% jump in favor of the BJP in Lok Sabha elections,” said Satyendra Singh, a political commentator.


There is an additional factor at work in Delhi that swings votes in favor of AAP in Assembly polls but doesn’t work for it in the Lok Sabha polls, according to political analyst Ramendra Dwivedi. “Delhi’s story is very simple. It is due to the Muslim vote that swings. In Assembly elections, Muslim votes tend to favor Arvind Kejriwal’s party, and in the Lok Sabha elections, they favor the Congress. So that is why there is a kind of mismatch,” Dwivedi said. Going by that logic, the seats of Chandni Chowk or East Delhi, where the minorities are in big numbers, could be foul areas of the Congress and the AAP. They can come together and put up a tough fight for the BJP.


However, what needs to be kept in mind is that the minority factor comes into play in Assembly elections because Assembly constituencies are smaller, and the numbers are enough to decide the fate of the seats. That isn’t the case in the Lok Sabha polls. Experts say that after the delimitation process of 2008, the entire composition of the Delhi seats has changed. In Delhi, there is not even a single Lok Sabha seat now that can be decided by voters of the minority community, according to the experts on The Emerging World.


Apart from that, the Modi factor plays an important role in the Lok Sabha election in Delhi like it does in most other places. That helps in the consolidation of votes for the BJP. The other reason could be that the people of Delhi still see the AAP as a regional party despite its efforts to grow in several states. So, multiple factors make Delhi seats go to the Aam Aadmi Party in Assembly polls but to the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. That would even be the case if the 2024 Lok Sabha polls were held today or later on.


Another renowned political analyst Jeev Kant Jha said,’ Whether it will be a triangular fight or a direct contest with a single I.N.D.I.A candidate in each Lok Sabha seat in Delhi, the BJP is confident of maintaining its dominance over all seven Lok Sabha constituencies in the national capital for the third consecutive time.’ The party’s eagerness to maintain a 7-0 track record stems from its recent Assembly election victories and the discordant signals emerging from the rival I.N.D.I.A bloc on seat-sharing.

The AAP and the Congress are still determining the seats on which they will fight against the BJP, meaning that only one opposition candidate will face each BJP candidate. However, the buzz is that the AAP wants the Congress to fight on only two seats, while the Congress is keen on contesting at least three. If the seat-sharing talks fail, the two may be forced to go it alone on all seven seats.
BJP national vice president and Delhi unit in charge Baijayant Panda said that the BJP’s win in the recent assembly elections in Hindi heartland states has created a positive atmosphere for the party, and there should be no doubts about the results of the Lok Sabha elections.


“We are winning all seven seats in Delhi, but we will have to make efforts to increase the victory margin, for which we will have to contact the beneficiaries of the Central government schemes and talk to them,” said Panda. A source inside the I.N.D.I.A bloc said, “The contrast seen between the alliances in the recent elections raises many questions about whether it will continue till the Lok Sabha election or not.”
Psephologist Sanjay Dubey said that there is constant friction within the opposition alliance and the people who make decision for the I.N.D.I.A bloc has to take control of the alliance. Dubey added, “If they are agreeing upon it, then there should be further concrete steps. If there is a cricket team and there is no captain, who will give direction to the team?”

Stunning Jewelry Trends That Are Poised to Take Over in 2022

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Pankaj Prasoon
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Red is Red hot now-a-days

What’s the  the chicest way to add the cherry on top of any look? Jewelry, of course! Bits, bobbles, bracelets, and earrings—there’s a lot to love about these swoon-worthy accessories. And lucky for you, we’ve been checking out all the stunning jewelry trends are going to be taking over 2022. Safe to say, you’re going to love what’s coming (trust).

From bright colors and bold statement earrings to cute and and seriously fun charms, there’s something for every jewel lover out there. 

To give you a peek, we’ve rounded up the best jewelry trends you’ll be seeing everywhere next year. 

Congress stages protest over the Pegasus row in front of Raj Bhawan

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Ranchi: Demanding a Supreme Court-monitored judicial inquiry in the espionage case regarding hacking of phones of opposition leaders, senior military officials, election commissioners, journalists and some other dignitaries through the Israeli spyware Pegasus leaders and workers of Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee demonstrated in front of the Raj Bhawan on Thursday demanding the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah.

Under the leadership of State Congress President Dr Rameshwar Oraon a small protest was held in front of the Raj Bhawan. The party had postponed the march and procession in the wake of the instructions received regarding the corona guidelines.

Addressing the event state Congress President Dr Rameshwar Oraon said that monitoring of opponents and hacking of phones by the central government through the Israeli spyware Pegasus is completely unconstitutional and illegal, it also violates the powers conferred under Article 21. Central government had encroached into ones private space, therefore the Supreme Court should take suo moto cognizance of this matter and order a judicial inquiry, he said, adding that there is talk of investigation of such immoral acts in other countries as well.

He said that this espionage work is possible only at the behest of the Prime Minister. The BJP-led central government, finding itself weak is engaged in spying on the opponents he said, adding that it was through this that work was done to break the governments in Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh whereas the Israeli government clearly says that it can be used only and only by the government to curb terrorist and criminal activities.

(EW correspondent)

Nehru’s Legacy: A Global Inspiration

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Amit Pandey, New Delhi

On the occasion of the 145th birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, leaders from various political parties came together to pay heartfelt tributes to India’s first Prime Minister. Nehru, fondly remembered as “Chacha Nehru,” played a monumental role in India’s independence movement and is widely regarded as the architect of modern India. His legacy, deeply embedded in India’s democratic and secular fabric, continues to inspire both India and the world. Leaders across the spectrum highlighted Nehru’s vision, emphasizing how his ideals of democracy, secularism, and progressive values remain relevant today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the nation in honouring Nehru’s memory, acknowledging his foundational role in shaping India’s democracy. In a message shared on X, Modi noted Nehru’s contributions towards building a united India that aimed for progress across social, economic, and scientific domains. Modi’s tribute underscored Nehru’s farsighted vision, which laid the groundwork for India’s journey towards modernization and self-reliance, guiding the nation even in contemporary times.

Rahul Gandhi, Nehru’s great-grandson and a prominent leader of the Congress Party, paid a deeply personal homage. Referring to Nehru as the “Jawahar of India,” Gandhi celebrated Nehru’s democratic, progressive, and inclusive values, emphasizing that they form the backbone of India’s ideals. Rahul Gandhi’s message portrayed Nehru not only as a political leader but as a visionary whose principles of unity, courage, and inclusivity continue to resonate with generations of Indians. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also honoured Nehru’s memory, sharing an excerpt from The Discovery of India, a book that reveals Nehru’s deep understanding and love for India’s diverse heritage. Kharge highlighted Nehru’s dedication to the nation and acknowledged his role as a fearless protector of democracy, saying Nehru’s impact on India’s growth in scientific, economic, and industrial fields was unparalleled.

Beyond India’s borders, Nehru’s legacy holds a special place on the world stage. A founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, Nehru championed the voices of newly independent nations amid the Cold War’s polarising pressures. He envisioned a world where countries could pursue self-determination, free from colonial and imperialistic influence, and India’s stance in international affairs remains influenced by his commitment to peace and neutrality. Nehru’s emphasis on decolonisation and his leadership among post-colonial states advocating for equality and mutual respect established him as a significant voice for global justice. His ideals continue to resonate with nations striving for self-governance and sustainable development, and his legacy is celebrated worldwide as an advocate for human rights and international cooperation.

Nehru’s policies laid the foundation for India’s economic and industrial development, steering the nation towards modernization while maintaining its cultural identity. His leadership in fostering scientific temper, promoting secularism, and building educational institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) laid a framework that has propelled India towards becoming a global force. Leaders’ tributes on this anniversary are a reminder of how Nehru’s ideas and vision continue to guide India’s journey as a democratic and progressive nation, as well as its efforts in fostering international peace and cooperation.

As India commemorates Nehru’s birth anniversary, the collective respect from leaders across party lines reflects the profound and lasting influence of his legacy. Nehru’s ideals of democracy, inclusivity, and unity serve as a beacon not only for India but for the world

Remembering Nehru!

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Editorial

As the nation paid homage to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on his 135th birth anniversary, the younger generations naturally should ask the question who Nehru was and what was his role in freedom struggle and in nation building, and obviously what relevance he holds in the third decade of 21st century? Nehru was a gifted visionary, a globally recognised statesman, a liberal democrat and a philosopher in constant transition. An idealist intellectual who felt an almost mystical empathy with the Indian farmers; an aristocrat, though accustomed to elitist privileges, had passionate socialist convictions; a product of highly anglicized British institutions, who spent years in their jails; an agnostic who became an unlikely protege of the saintly Mahatma Gandhi; personified in true sense the Indian ethos, values, and its paradoxes for about seventeen years after Independence.

After Mahatma’s assassination, Pandit Nehru became the keeper of the nation’s conscience, flame of oneness, and the most visible embodiment of India’s struggle for freedom. A darling of the nation, he was a politician above politics. His stature was so great that the country he led seemed inconceivable without him. India has in many respects moved on, but Nehru remains a compelling figure, irresistible to secular-democratic thinkers, historians, biographers and politicians alike.

Jawaharlal Nehru’s famous “tryst with destiny” speech on the eve of India’s Independence, has remained etched in the minds of countrymen for ushering in the unwavering spirit of Azad Bharat, a cause that innumerous freedom fighters had sacrificed their lives for. Generations to come will proudly remember that speech by Nehru as the first step by India in its journey from a British colony to a sovereign nation.
Fulfilling the pledge to cater to the needs of an aspirational India was a challenge of gargantuan proportions. Independence came at a humongous cost, British colonialism trampled India, partition had left its social fiber battered with communal-religious fissures and caste-gender discrimination. The economic gloom and doom was healthy upon us.

Pt Nehru successfully set out to realise the dream of a strong and resurgent India. He steered the nation on the path of political freedom, socio-economic advancement and modernisation. Although, India didn’t have enough resources to feed its people a square meal and secure its borders, it was his sheer patriotism, dedication and commitment that he steered the ship of Indian state to the shores of territorial and emotional integration, social cohesion and economic self-reliance.

On foreign policy front, it was under Nehru’s guidance and leadership that the Policy of Non-Alignment became the voice of newly independent nations of Asia, Africa and Latin America. Nehru’s Panchsheel Agreement with China that essentially gifted the world a powerful formula of peaceful co-existence and cooperation for mutual benefit, also served as the foundation for good relations with the neighbouring countries. Without compromising our autonomy of thought and action in international arena, Nehru created an independent place for India in the world politics

Despite criticism from contrasting political ideologies and schools of thought, Nehru’s contributions continue to echo unwaveringly even today. His contribution to India’s freedom movement, and after independence his unparalleled efforts in architecting a modern, secular-democratic constitutional Republic make him an outstanding statesman to be remembered for generations to come!

Despite the immense reserves of valuable mineral graphite in Palamu, it is neglected

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Sanjay Kumar Pandey

Ranchi:  Despite abundant deposits of high-quality graphite in Palamu, industries utilizing this valuable resource have not been developed, primarily due to the apathy of local representatives. According to initial surveys, vast graphite reserves exist across various areas of the Palamu, Latehar, and Garhwa districts, including Bishrampur, Hatayi, Tula, Ara, Satwarwa, Panki, Manasoti, and Garu, among others. However, since Jharkhand became a separate state, little effort has been made by the government to fully explore and document these mineral resources. In the 1960s, a central laboratory was established in Hazaribagh for mineral quality assessment, yet a thorough review of the Department of Mines and Geology is needed to identify obstacles and find solutions for evaluating mineral reserves efficiently. Mineral exploration should be prioritized, as the absence of a structured exploration program has led to the stagnation of these resources. Palamu once hosted eight graphite beneficiation plants near its district headquarters, Medininagar. These plants were used to upgrade low-grade graphite to high-quality levels, essential for producing items like crucibles, lubricants, paint, pencils, and carbon brushes. However, most of these plants have either disappeared or are inactive. Due to short-term profit motives, past mining activities did not follow scientific methods, leading to unsustainable extraction practices. The valuable graphite reserves now appear neglected, with several leased areas lying idle for years without any exploration. For future leases, the state government should mandate the installation of beneficiation plants and conduct reserve assessments within five years. If leaseholders fail to meet these requirements, the government should step in and assess the reserves at the leaseholder’s expense. Currently, around 45% of India’s graphite production is used in the refractory industry, 30% in crucible manufacturing, 10% in foundries, and the remaining 15% in other industries. The refined graphite available in Palamu has the potential to support various industries, yet Jharkhand lacks factories producing graphite-based products such as crucibles, lubricants, carbon brushes, and pencils. Medininagar offers enormous potential for establishing these industries, but a lack of initiative from local representatives has kept these opportunities unrealized. Continuous state-level efforts are needed to promote graphite-based industries within Jharkhand.

Jharkhand Elections 2024: Women, Infiltration, and Reservation Dominate India Alliance-NDA Clash

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The India Alliance is promoting its “Maiyaan Samman Yojana,” a welfare scheme tailored for women, while the BJP has launched the “Gogo Didi Yojana

Abhinit Kumar

Ranchi: The 2024 Jharkhand Assembly Elections have emerged as a fierce contest between the India Alliance and the NDA, with both coalitions strategically focusing on key issues that resonate deeply with the state’s electorate. The battle is set against a backdrop of intense political maneuvering, as both sides seek to secure crucial voter bases through promises related to women’s welfare, reservation policies, and concerns over infiltration. With most constituencies witnessing direct face-offs, the election is shaping up to be a crucial test of the alliances’ ability to connect with the diverse issues facing Jharkhand’s voters.

A notable highlight in this election is the intensified focus on women voters, often described as “half the population,” by both major alliances. The India Alliance is promoting its “Maiyaan Samman Yojana,” a welfare scheme tailored for women, while the BJP has launched the “Gogo Didi Yojana.” These schemes underscore the emphasis each coalition places on appealing to women voters, a critical demographic that could tip the scales in this tight election.

The issue of Bangladeshi infiltration has become another key point of contention, with the BJP making it a central campaign topic. The BJP has engaged its star campaigners, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, to emphasize the infiltration problem, portraying it as a national security and demographic challenge. Leaders from BJP-led states, such as Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, have also joined the effort, underscoring the party’s stance on a unified and secure India. The India Alliance, meanwhile, is working to counter this narrative by framing the infiltration issue as a federal responsibility and asserting that local governance should focus more on welfare and development.

Reservation policies for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) have become a shared promise of both coalitions, with each pledging to increase OBC reservation to 27% and expand Jharkhand’s reservation ceiling. This promise taps into significant voter interest, particularly in Jharkhand’s rural and indigenous communities. However, the reservation issue has also sparked heated exchanges. The India Alliance, recalling past election strategies, accuses the BJP of undermining reservation policies to benefit specific vote banks, while BJP leaders, including PM Modi, have countered by asserting that Congress has historically opposed reservations for marginalized groups.

In addition to reservation, the India Alliance has brought the Sarna religious code into its agenda to attract tribal and indigenous support. This code, which aims to formally recognize indigenous religious practices, has deep cultural significance for many Jharkhand voters, especially those belonging to tribal communities who have long advocated for such recognition. The alliance hopes this stance will resonate with these voters, positioning it as a coalition that honors local traditions and respects Jharkhand’s unique cultural identity.

Amid these competing narratives, PM Modi has recently intensified the BJP’s stance on the reservation issue by directly challenging Congress’s commitment. In a rally at Chaibasa, he criticized Congress’s historical approach to reservations, accusing it of exploiting these policies to serve vote-bank interests rather than genuinely supporting marginalized communities. Modi’s comments underline the BJP’s counter-strategy of depicting itself as the true guardian of reservation rights, aiming to reassure voters skeptical of the opposition’s promises.

As the Jharkhand Assembly Elections unfold, these issues—women’s welfare, Bangladeshi infiltration, reservation, and tribal identity—are likely to be decisive. Both alliances have tailored their campaigns to appeal to specific voter bases, leveraging emotive and impactful issues. The election results will ultimately reveal which coalition has best resonated with the people of Jharkhand, as they navigate a political landscape shaped by local aspirations, community welfare, and national security concerns.

Jharkhand Assembly Election: Women Voters, Tribal Dynamics, and Emerging Alliances

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Manoj Kumar Pathak

As Jharkhand gears up for its Assembly elections, shifting voter demographics and complex social dynamics are set to play a crucial role in determining the outcome. A significant rise in women voters, coupled with tribal and caste-based preferences, is reshaping the state’s political landscape. While the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) seems to hold an advantage due to welfare schemes targeting women and tribal communities, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is grappling with challenges in expanding its appeal in these regions. Meanwhile, local leaders like Jairam Mahto are drawing attention with their focus on community-specific issues, potentially disrupting traditional voting patterns. This election promises to be a pivotal one, as these emerging factors combine to influence Jharkhand’s political future.

Rising Influence of Women Voters

In the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly elections, women voters are emerging as a significant demographic force. Of the 81 Vidhan Sabha seats, 32 constituencies now have more female voters than male voters. This rise in female representation at the polls could sway the election results, particularly in favor of parties that have introduced women-focused welfare schemes.

The ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, may have the upper hand with women voters due to the Mukhymantri Maiya Samman Yojana scheme. Under this program, the government provides ₹1,000 to women, with promises of increased benefits if the JMM retains power. Similar welfare schemes in states like Madhya Pradesh have yielded positive results for ruling parties, suggesting this strategy might similarly benefit the JMM in Jharkhand. The support of rural women, particularly in areas where male migration for work is high, could further bolster the JMM’s chances, as women are likely to play an active role in voting.

Challenges for BJP in Tribal Strongholds

Jharkhand’s tribal belt is a challenging terrain for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The party’s limited on-ground presence in tribal areas contributed to its loss in all Scheduled Tribe (ST)-reserved Lok Sabha seats in the previous elections. This weak local cadre network has left the BJP vulnerable to rival narratives, particularly from the JMM, which has a stronger foothold in these regions.

If the BJP fails to make substantial inroads in tribal areas, it will likely be due to its insufficient local engagement and the inability to counter JMM’s influence. The BJP’s approach to energizing its base and countering allegations from opposition parties could prove critical, especially in areas like Santhal Pargana, where the BJP currently trails the JMM.

Caste and Community Dynamics: The ‘Upper Caste,’ OBC, and SC Voters

The BJP faces additional hurdles in consolidating votes among the ‘upper caste,’ Scheduled Caste (SC), and Other Backward Class (OBC) communities. While JMM has garnered favor within the tribal population due to schemes like the Maiya Samman Yojana, the BJP’s challenge lies in gaining support from other communities, particularly among lower socioeconomic classes within these groups.

A new political player, Jairam Mahto, and his party are also complicating the BJP’s outreach efforts. Known for advocating local issues related to domicile, language, employment, and education, Mahto has attracted young voters and a significant base within the Kurmi-Mahto community, a dominant OBC group in Jharkhand. His focus on issues that resonate with the region has made him a formidable vote-cutter, likely to affect both the BJP and JMM. During the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Mahto’s party gained considerable traction, especially in constituencies like Giridih, Ranchi, and Hazaribagh. His popularity among the youth and his stance on local issues could influence the voting preferences of those disillusioned with mainstream parties.

Bangladeshi Infiltration Issue: Core but Limited Appeal

The BJP has traditionally emphasized the issue of illegal Bangladeshi infiltration as part of its electoral strategy, appealing primarily to its core voter base. While this issue strengthens BJP’s appeal among established supporters, it is unlikely to attract new voters, as those concerned with this issue are already aligned with the party. This trend is seen not only in Jharkhand but also in states like West Bengal, where illegal immigration remains a politically charged topic.

However, bringing this issue to the forefront could consolidate BJP’s existing base, particularly in regions like Santhal Pargana, where the party needs to energize its cadre to stay competitive against JMM’s influence.

As Jharkhand heads to the polls, the electoral dynamics reveal a complex landscape influenced by women’s increased voter turnout, the persistence of tribal disenchantment with the BJP, the impact of caste and community-based alliances, and local issues championed by emerging leaders like Jairam Mahto. The JMM, with its welfare-centric approach, appears poised to benefit from rural women and tribal voters, while the BJP must rely on consolidating its traditional voter base and addressing local grievances to make inroads. As the election unfolds, these demographic and community dynamics will likely shape the outcome in Jharkhand’s politically diverse constituencies.

Historical Shahpur Fort in Palamu Cries for Restoration

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Sanjay Kumar Pandey

Shahpur Fort, an ancient emblem of Palamu’s history near Medininagar in Daltonganj- Bhandaria constituency, now stands in dilapidation, weeping over its neglected state. Situated on the western bank of the Koel River, this 18th-century fort was once the proud stronghold of Raja Gopal Rai of the Chero dynasty. Despite its proximity to Medininagar, the fort is now a shadow of its former self, craving restoration as it slowly succumbs to time and neglect.The residents of Chainpur, where the fort is located, have all but forgotten this monument. This lack of interest raises a troubling question: do the area’s representatives, intellectuals, social activists, and NGOs see any value in preserving this historical gem? Had this fort held any significance for them, it might have been restored and maintained by now. Even though local politicians and NGOs frequently emphasize regional heritage, no concrete steps have been taken to preserve Shahpur Fort. Constructed in 1772, the fort’s architecture includes gun ports and cannon holes along its walls, which once defended the fort’s upper floors.

Neglect of Historical Heritage in Daltonganj- Bhandaria Constituency:
Shahpur Fort in Ruins

The fort originally housed several levels: the lower levels for officials, a grand assembly hall on the third floor with intricate carvings on its doors, and a queen’s residence on the second floor. This iconic structure is filled with stories of courage, like that of Thakur Jaynath Singh, who fiercely defended the fort against British forces. The neglect of Shahpur Fort not only robs the region’s youth of their heritage but also overlooks the legacy of Palamu’s freedom fighters, like Neelambar and Pitambar, whose stories are woven into the fabric of the district’s history. Many feel that the time has come for public representatives, activists, and the local community to come together and take a stand for preserving Palamu’s heritage. Yet, despite this growing concern, efforts to revive the fort remain stalled. The fort’s tragic state continues, leaving a pressing question unanswered: who will take responsibility for restoring and honoring this symbol of Palamu’s history?

Ensure All Preparations for Assembly Elections Are Finalized: K. Ravi Kumar

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Sanjay Kumar Pandey

Ranchi: Chief Electoral Officer K. Ravi Kumar has directed that all preparations for the upcoming 2024 Assembly Elections be finalized promptly. Emphasizing both voter motivation and the provision of essential facilities at polling stations, he advised that thorough reviews of arrangements be conducted. Kumar highlighted the importance
of running a trial for the online application used by presiding officers on November 9 to avoid any issues on election day. He was addressing District Election Officers (DEOs) during a review meeting held at Nirvachan Sadan on Saturday. CEO stressed that security for the strong rooms in each district should meet the standards outlined
by the Election Commission of India. Additionally, he directed that 100- and 200-meter markings be established around polling stations at least three days prior to voting. To maintain a clean and fair election environment, all checkpoints should remain active, with night patrols to curb illegal activities.

During the session, Kumar reviewed all key aspects of the election preparations, providing directives on the deployment of security forces, state and district border checkpoints, strong room security, vulnerability mapping, seizure of illegal materials, issuance of Form 12D for postal ballots, training and randomization of polling staff, marking of polling stations, and allocation of voter slips. Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dr. Neha Arora discussed SOPs for webcasting, ensuring voter awareness about the 12 alternative ID proofs permissible at polling stations, and making election day a paid holiday. The meeting was attended by Dr. Neha Arora, Joint Chief Electoral Officer Subodh Kumar, OSD Mrs. Geeta Chaubey, Assistant Chief Electoral Officer Mr. Dev Das Dutta, and DEOs, Deputy Election Officers, and officials from District Election Offices across the state via online platforms.

Review of Election Preparations and Future Plans Held in Jamshedpur

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Sanjay Kumar Pandey

Ranchi: In a meeting held at the District Collectorate auditorium in Jamshedpur, the Police Observer, General Observer, and Expenditure Observer reviewed the progress of election preparations and outlined upcoming plans with nodal and in-charge officers from all departments. The session emphasized conducting the election process in a free, fair, and transparent manner, with crucial directives given to ensure compliance. The District Election Officer and the Senior Superintendent of Police, along with Returning Officers (ROs), were present. During the meeting, the observers conducted a sequential review of the work being executed by various departments and instructed officers to diligently fulfill their roles with attention to detail and adherence to the mandate of a free, impartial, and fear-free election.

All departments were urged to work in harmony and coordination. Key points covered included the availability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), vehicle arrangements, booth mapping, checkpoints, election expense tracking, C-Vigil monitoring, integrated control room, and the functioning of Flying Squad Teams (FST), Video Surveillance Teams (VST), and Video Viewing Teams (VVT). Additionally, discussions involved addressing cases of Model Code of Conduct violations, seizure of cash and illegal liquor, action against freebie distribution, activities of the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee, vigilance on spending by political parties and candidates, postal ballots, Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) activities, and handling of paid news. Observers also ensured that all minimum facilities at polling stations, training for polling personnel, and appointment of sector and zonal officers were in place. They emphasized strict adherence to the Election Commission’s guidelines throughout the election process and encouraged nodal and in-charge officers to implement these guidelines meticulously.

Election Update: 683 Candidates in First Phase Across 43 Assembly Seats

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Sanjay Kumar Pandey

Ranchi: Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar announced that a total of 683 candidates will contest in the first phase across 43 Assembly constituencies. Of these, 609 are male, 73 are female, and one candidate identifies as transgender. The nomination withdrawal process for the second phase has also been completed. Among the 683 candidates, 87 are from nationally recognized parties, including 75 men and 12 women. Jharkhand’s state-recognized parties have fielded 32 candidates (28 men, 4 women), while recognized state-level parties from other states have fielded 42 candidates (39 men, 3 women). Additionally, 188 candidates (168 men, 20 women) are representing registered but unrecognized political parties. In the first phase alone, a total of 334 candidates are contesting, with 299 men and 34 women. During a press conference at the Election House in Dhurwa, CEO emphasized the Election Commission’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and safe election process. Enhanced vigilance is being maintained along state borders, with checkpoints actively monitoring cross-border movement to prevent illegal activities. Since the Model Code of Conduct came into effect, authorities have seized illegal materials and cash valued at ₹135.70 crore. Furthermore, 24 FIRs have been filed for violations of the Model Code of Conduct, and enforcement actions are ongoing.

Alka Tiwari, 1988 Batch IAS Officer, Appointed Chief Secretary of Jharkhand

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Sanjay Kumar Pandey

Ranchi: The Department of Personnel, Administrative Reforms, and Official Language, Government of Jharkhand, has
officially appointed Mrs. Alka Tiwari, a 1988 batch IAS officer, as the Chief Secretary of Jharkhand. Previously a member of the Jharkhand Revenue Council, Alka Tiwari’s appointment as Chief Secretary has been approved by the Election Commission of India. Known for her integrity, dedication, and outstanding performance, Alka Tiwari is regarded as an exemplary IAS officer. Alka Tiwari holds a Master’s in Psychology from Meerut University, where she earned the Governor’s Gold Medal as a top scorer. She also completed her MSc in Civil and Structural Engineering at Manchester University, UK, securing a gold medal for her excellence. Additionally, she holds a law degree from Ranchi University and has undertaken specialized training, including courses at Harvard University and Duke University in the USA on financial inclusion and public fiscal management. Her career in Jharkhand spans various key roles, including DC and Collector in Gumla and Lohardaga districts, Secretary of Commercial Tax and Forest and Environment Departments, and advisor at NITI Aayog. In her tenure as CMD of FAGMIL, she transformed the company into a market leader in gypsum, reversing its declining profitability. She also held pivotal roles as Additional Secretary in the Department of Fertilizers, coordinating with international partners like Qatar, Iran, and Russia to ensure urea supply and defend India’s revenue interests. In addition, she contributed significantly to India’s education reforms, tourism, and tribal welfare. Alka Tiwari’s husband, Dr. D.K. Tiwari, a retired 1986 batch IAS officer and former Chief Secretary of Jharkhand, currently serves as the State Election Commissioner.

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