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.