My take on the Jharkhand Assembly Election 2024
The 2024 Jharkhand Assembly election result painted a picture of optimism that stands apart from the trends seen in many state elections following the General Elections. While several post-general Election outcomes echoed national mandates or reaffirmed dominant majoritarian narratives, Jharkhand offers a refreshing deviation—a story shaped by regional priorities, grassroots issues, and a conscious electorate. Above all, I would say this is the struggle of the Indigenous community to reject the politics of religious divisiveness over self-determination through the democratic method. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led INDIA bloc's resounding victory, which saw it win 56 of 81 seats in the State and achieve a two-third majority despite the BJP's deeply polarizing campaign, reflects the strength of a broad-based social coalition powered by a range of effective welfare initiatives. This stunning mandate has made history in Jharkhand's state elections, as it marks the firs...