Dantewada: The first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh has concluded with a 2% higher voter turnout compared to the 2018 assembly elections. The Election Commission reported a 62.55% voter turnout in the Dantewada assembly constituency by 5 PM. Despite Naxal threats, many rural voters actively participated in the elections. However, some voters couldn’t cast their votes as they were turned away when the polling time ended.
In areas like Neelavaya, in Dantewada district’s Koakonda block, the fear of Naxal threats led to a complete lack of voter turnout at some polling booths. Additionally, the remote locations of the polling centers contributed to low participation.
On the other hand, Chindanar Ghat in Cherpal, across the Indravati River, witnessed significant voter turnout after the construction of a bridge. Voting booths in various villages were shifted to ensure better accessibility. Despite Naxal threats and the status of Naxal-affected areas, a large number of rural voters turned up to cast their votes, showing their enthusiasm for the democratic process.
In Cherpal, some voters faced disappointment as their polling centers closed before the official deadline. They have recorded videos to protest the closure of polling centers, indicating that the centers shut down before 3 PM, preventing approximately 100 to 150 voters from casting their ballots.
Despite these challenges, the higher voter turnout in this election phase is a positive sign for the democratic process in Chhattisgarh.
The Chhattisgarh election is closely watched, and participation remains essential in this region with a history of Naxal threats. The ongoing elections will help shape the state’s political landscape.