By A Staff Reporter
Ranchi – Former Jharkhand Congress President Rajesh Thakur has voiced concerns over low polling percentages in areas visited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to Thakur, wherever PM Modi held roadshows or rallies, the turnout remained unexpectedly low, suggesting a possible disconnect between the BJP's appeal and voter engagement in those areas. "Wherever PM Modi visited or held a roadshow, the polling percentage is very low," he remarked, drawing a contrast with the enthusiastic turnout reported from rural regions.
Thakur highlighted that the INDIA alliance saw strong support among rural voters, who turned out in large numbers, particularly in areas that the BJP reportedly overlooked in favor of urban settings. “People from rural areas came out in large numbers to vote for the INDIA alliance," Thakur emphasized, contending that the BJP has shown minimal focus on rural constituencies. He claimed that BJP’s campaign efforts were predominantly concentrated on urban populations, potentially leading to lower participation in rural precincts.
This observation comes as the INDIA alliance aims to garner support across broader voter demographics, especially in agrarian and tribal regions that are often critical in state elections. Thakur argued that by focusing primarily on urban voters, the BJP risks alienating a significant portion of the electorate. In contrast, he asserted, the INDIA alliance is actively reaching out to rural communities to bolster its grassroots support.
Thakur's comments underscore ongoing debates over party strategies and outreach efforts as political alliances vie for influence in Jharkhand, where rural turnout can decisively shape election outcomes.