Ranchi: Chief Electoral Officer K. Ravi Kumar announced today that nominations for the first phase of the Jharkhand Assembly elections will commence on October 18 and close on October 25. Candidates can submit their nominations between 11 AM and 3 PM, with no nominations accepted on holidays.
Kumar emphasized the need for all candidates to adhere to the Election Commission’s guidelines during the nomination process. He noted that only three vehicles will be permitted within a 100-meter radius of the nomination site, and only four individuals may accompany a candidate into the nomination room. Additionally, each candidate must provide a list of 10 people as part of their nomination.
A security deposit of Rs 10,000 is required from general candidates, while those from Scheduled Castes and Tribes must deposit Rs 5,000. Each candidate will also need to complete Form 26 as an affidavit.
During a press conference, Kumar highlighted that candidates are required to disclose information about any criminal cases in at least three newspapers and on their social media platforms. He also advised that candidates should open separate bank accounts to manage their election expenses.
In related news, Kumar announced a two-day art festival scheduled to begin on Friday at Jaipal Singh Stadium, aimed at promoting the assembly elections. The festival will be inaugurated at 11 AM and will feature works from 81 prominent artists, showcasing cultural themes relevant to each of Jharkhand’s 81 assembly constituencies. Various cultural activities will also take place during the event.
Kumar invited all voters to attend the festival with their families.
Additionally, he reported that since the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct, authorities have seized illegal goods and cash valued at Rs 37 lakh. Kumar was joined at the press conference by Joint Chief Electoral Officer Subodh Kumar and Deputy Director of Public Relations Anand.
