Jharkhand Assembly Elections 2024: JMM Files Complaint Against Babulal Marandi’s Voting in Giridih

Giridih, November 20, 2024: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has filed a formal complaint against Babulal Marandi, a prominent BJP leader and candidate from the Dhanwar Assembly seat, following an alleged violation of the election code of conduct during the ongoing Jharkhand Assembly elections 2024. The complaint was submitted to the District Commissioner (DC) of Giridih, who also holds the position of District Election Officer (DEO).

JMM Raises Concern Over Babulal Marandi’s Voting Incident

The JMM, led by its General Secretary Supiyo Bhattacharya, has raised concerns about Babulal Marandi’s actions during the voting process on November 20, 2024. According to the complaint, Babulal Marandi was seen photographing himself while casting his vote at the designated polling booth. The photos, which were later shared publicly, have sparked a controversy within political circles.

JMM officials argue that the act of taking and sharing photographs during voting goes against the guidelines set by the Election Commission of India (ECI), which prohibits the display of voter preferences and any form of campaigning or publicity within the polling booth area. The move is seen as a violation of the Election Code of Conduct and the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

JMM Submits Written Complaint to Giridih DC Regarding Election Code Violation

In the written complaint submitted to Giridih DC, the JMM has requested a thorough investigation into the incident. The party has urged the district authorities to take immediate action, emphasizing that such actions could undermine the sanctity of the voting process and the integrity of the election. JMM has also provided the photographs as evidence to support its claims.

The complaint highlights that the BJP candidate’s actions could influence voters and create an unfair advantage, given the sensitive nature of the electoral process. Babulal Marandi’s photographs, showing him inside the polling booth with his ballot, have been circulated widely on social media platforms.

Violation of Election Code of Conduct: Babulal Marandi’s Voting Controversy

This incident has raised alarms among political observers, who view it as a serious breach of the election code of conduct in the Jharkhand Assembly elections 2024. The Election Commission has already put in place strict guidelines to ensure that all candidates and voters adhere to the rules that preserve the integrity of the elections.

Under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, it is illegal for a voter to take photographs inside a polling booth or display their ballot in any manner. These rules are designed to ensure that voters’ choices remain private and free from any undue influence or pressure.

The incident comes at a time when voter turnout in Jharkhand’s ongoing elections is a topic of significant discussion, with various political parties urging citizens to actively participate in the democratic process.

As of now, the Giridih DC has yet to respond publicly to the complaint. However, JMM leaders remain optimistic that the issue will be investigated thoroughly and appropriate actions will be taken to address the violation.

This latest controversy adds to the already charged political atmosphere in Jharkhand, where the Jharkhand Assembly elections 2024 are seeing fierce competition across the state. The elections are crucial for the state’s future governance and every voting incident has the potential to sway public perception.