Residents of Naxal-Hit Villages in Bastar to Vote at New Polling Stations

Residents of Naxal-Hit Villages in Bastar to Vote at New Polling Stations

VoM News Desk | October 13, 2023 | 05:50 PM IST | Breaking News, Chattisgarh | Follow on Google News

Residents of Naxal-Hit Villages in Bastar to Vote at New Polling Stations

Residents of Naxal-Hit Villages in Bastar to Vote at New Polling Stations

In a historic development, residents of over 120 interior villages in Chhattisgarh’s Naxalite-affected Bastar region will have the opportunity to vote in the upcoming assembly polls. For the first time since Independence, polling stations will be set up in these remote areas, which were once Maoist strongholds. This achievement is seen as a triumph of “ballot over bullet,” as it ends the arduous journeys of villagers who previously had to trek 8 to 10 kilometers, crossing hills and rivulets, to cast their votes.

The new polling stations in these interior pockets indicate an improving security scenario and a strengthened democratic system in the Bastar region, which comprises seven districts and 12 assembly segments.

More than 126 new polling stations are being established for the upcoming election, with the majority situated in previously Naxal stronghold areas. The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Bastar range, Sundarraj P, commented that these new polling stations would narrate the story of the triumph of “ballot over bullet” to future generations in Bastar.

These new polling stations not only enhance the democratic process but also signify a substantial change in the ground situation. The establishment of over 65 new security camps, manned by state police and central armed police forces, has been instrumental in achieving this remarkable transformation.

Geographical terrain and Maoist threats had previously made it impossible to set up polling booths in these areas. However, the new polling stations represent a significant step toward improving security and strengthening democracy in Bastar.

Residents in villages like Chandameta, once considered a Left Wing Extremism (LWE) stronghold, will now have the convenience of voting in their own villages. Earlier, they had to travel several kilometers over challenging terrain to reach a polling station. The new polling stations have brought a sense of excitement and enthusiasm for these residents.

The upcoming assembly polls are scheduled for November 7 in the Bastar division, with the remaining constituencies set to vote on November 17. This move not only symbolizes a democratic victory but also represents a positive step toward inclusivity and improved accessibility for voters in remote and challenging regions.

VoM News Desk

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