In a historic moment, 37-year-old Halkan Kisan exercised his voting right for the first time at his local booth in Budha Pahad – a former Maoist stronghold now situated within the Palamu Lok Sabha constituency, spanning across Jharkhand’s Latehar and Garhwa districts.
Recently liberated from the grip of red rebels by security forces after more than three decades, Budha Pahad witnessed an atmosphere of renewed hope and democracy as hundreds of voters from various villages fearlessly participated in the electoral process.
Kisan, a resident of Hesatu village under Bargarh block, shared his experience, “I have cast my vote at my own booth for the first time in my life. Previously, our booth used to be relocated about 13 km from my village due to Maoist influence. Now, with the area free from Maoist activities, people are enthusiastically exercising their franchise.”
The polling station, located in the government’s Upgraded Middle School, Hesatu, witnessed heavy security deployment to ensure smooth conduct of the electoral process. Medininagar sub-divisional officer Anurag Tiwary confirmed the air-dropping of polling officials and security personnel at Budha Pahad to facilitate the polls.
Despite the challenges, including difficult terrain and past security concerns, a total of 771 electors were eligible to cast their votes at the booth. By 1 pm, the booth had recorded a commendable 68 per cent turnout.
Vikram Yadav, another voter from Saurat village, expressed satisfaction with the security arrangements, stating, “I cast my vote without any trouble, walking around 5 km from my village. Security forces were deployed along the way, ensuring a safe environment.”
Block programming officer, Bargarh, Md Hashim Ansari highlighted the arrangements made for voters, including shelters, drinking water, ambulances, and transportation facilities for the elderly and physically challenged.
The successful conduct of polling at booth no 420 was a result of coordinated efforts, with Jharkhand Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar acknowledging the pivotal role of security forces in making Budha Pahad terror-free.
However, due to lingering security concerns, three other booths in Budha Pahad were relocated, ensuring the safety and participation of voters across the region.
The liberation of Budha Pahad from left-wing extremists was the culmination of three special operations launched since April 2022, resulting in the elimination of 14 Maoists and the apprehension or surrender of 590 others.
Despite previous challenges, the successful conduct of polling in Budha Pahad signifies a significant step towards restoring democracy and stability in the region, fostering hope for a brighter future.
