Dhanbad
For the first time since 1984, voters in Maoist-affected Tundi block in Jharkhand’s Dhanbad district cast their ballots without fear of a poll boycott call from the rebels. Among them was 55-year-old Devyanti Majhia, who joined many others in exercising their right to vote. This marks a significant change, as Maoists have traditionally discouraged voting by putting up boycott posters on school buildings and homes.
Enthusiasm was high among the residents of Tundi, part of the Giridih Lok Sabha seat. The voting process was peaceful, and a turnout of 56.77 percent was recorded by 3 pm, according to Dhanbad Deputy Commissioner Madhvi Mishra. The lack of a boycott call contributed to this high participation rate.
A senior police officer noted that the Maoists’ influence has significantly diminished, now limited to only a few pockets, which helped boost voter turnout in previously red zones. Frequent visits by Dhanbad Senior Superintendent of Police H.P. Janardhan and his team to vulnerable polling booths further bolstered voters’ confidence.
The district administration had designated 34 of the 85 booths in the block as Maoist-affected. Voter Dinesh Mahtha observed long queues, particularly of women, at polling stations—an uncommon sight in years. Dhaneswar Singh, whose brother was killed by Maoists in 1984, reported no fear of rebel threats. Sunil Choudhary, a school teacher, asserted that the Maoists have been completely eradicated from the region.
