The Ghatsila Assembly constituency by-election in East Singhbhum district is nearing its conclusion, with Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) candidate Somesh Chandra Soren establishing a commanding lead. After the 17th round of counting, Soren has secured 89,251 votes, solidifying his position as the frontrunner. This significant advantage places him well ahead of his closest rival, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Babulal Soren, making JMM’s victory seem almost certain and igniting celebrations within the party. Babulal Soren of the BJP has garnered 56,445 votes so far. Trailing in third place is Ramdas Murmu of the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha, with 11,235 votes. Many other candidates are struggling to retain their deposits. Independent and smaller party candidates have seen a dismal performance. Dr. Shrilal Kisku, an independent, received 1,341 votes, while Panchanan Soren of the Bharat Adivasi Party secured only 901. The ‘None of the Above’ (NOTA) option received 2,458 votes, surpassing the tallies of several minor candidates. The final results are anticipated shortly, confirming JMM’s anticipated win in the Ghatsila by-election.
