As the assembly polling date approaches, political parties in Jamshedpur have shifted gears, emphasizing grassroots campaigning over digital strategies. With candidates recognizing the importance of direct voter engagement, both urban and rural areas have become bustling hubs of activity, as hopefuls embark on ambitious door-to-door canvassing efforts.
In Jamshedpur East, Dr. Ajoy Kumar, a prominent candidate, has taken to the streets with fervour. His public relations campaign recently unfolded across Bagunhatu, Kalyan Nagar, and Kashidih, where he was met with warm welcomes from local residents. Dr. Ajoy ’s approach focuses on creating personal connections, as he believes that understanding the electorate’s needs is crucial for effective representation. "This is the love of the people," he said, reflecting on the enthusiastic reception. "This time, the public will decide whether they want a safe, developed Jamshedpur or not." His campaign is built on addressing the pressing issues of health, education, and employment—areas he identifies as vital for the community's well-being. "Our entire focus will be on these priorities, and I am confident that I will receive full support from the people of Jamshedpur East," he assured.
Shifting focus to Jamshedpur West, Congress candidate Banna Gupta has also adopted an aggressive door-to-door strategy, particularly in the Mango locality. Gupta has made it a point to interact directly with voters, seeking their support and feedback. "We have promised better civic services for the residents of the non-company areas," he asserted, outlining his vision for enhanced traffic management and infrastructure improvements in Kadma and Bistupur. Gupta’s campaign strategy includes meticulous planning for ward-wise outreach, showcasing his commitment to listening to constituents and addressing their concerns.
Even as Gupta engages with voters on the ground, he maintains an active presence on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. However, he acknowledges the importance of traditional methods, stating, "Not all sections of people are connected with social media, and padyatras are the best way to get firsthand information about the public." His dedication to walking the streets—covering 8 to 10 kilometers daily—demonstrates a genuine effort to connect with people from all walks of life.
The BJP, too, is in full campaign mode, with district spokesperson Anil Modi detailing the party's strategies in Jamshedpur East. Modi explained that party workers have been instructed to map out padyatra routes across the constituency, enabling candidates to meet voters directly. Purnima Das, a candidate for the BJP from Jamshedpur East, has made personal interaction a cornerstone of her campaign. She has already traversed several police station areas, actively listening to voters' grievances. "She spends two hours in the morning and two hours in the evening on padyatras, focusing on understanding the people's problems," Modi noted. Areas like Agrico, Sidhgora, Baridih, Bagunhatu, and Bagunnagar have seen her commitment firsthand, as she prioritizes face-to-face communication over digital outreach.
As Jamshedpur prepares for the upcoming elections, the emphasis on traditional campaigning methods highlights a broader trend among candidates striving for authenticity and connection with their constituents. The streets, filled with the sounds of candidates engaging with voters, stand as a testament to the enduring power of personal interaction in politics.
