Festival amid election offers a golden opportunity to political parties and their respective candidates to socialise with their voters to strengthen their probability of winning in the elections. The festival of nature worship, Sarhul, presented the politicians with the opportunity before Jharkhand goes to polls.
Candidates in poll fray erected banners at Ranchi’s Albert Ekka Chowk where the Sarhul procession carried out by different groups of Adivasis’ assembles and highlights the bonding within the indigenous community. Ranchi MP Subodh Kant Sahay prominently appeared with banner featuring the photo of the sitting MP and Congress’ candidate for Ranchi parliamentary constituency.
The Ranchi MP immersed himself in nature worship at Misir Gonda, Vardhman Compound, at Ratu. Interestingly, Sahay took part in the procession carried out every year to celebrate Sarhul.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) which is jostling for space in the political landscape of Jharkhand and has fielded candidates in Jharkhand has also used the occasion to mingle with the Adivasi community. The TMC leaders with roots in State welcomed Sarhul procession besides shaking legs in the traditional style of dancing and thus attempting to strike a chord with Adivasi community.
TMC’s candidate for Ranchi and Mandar MlA, who is also known for his views on Adivasi rights in Jharkhand, danced with people in Sarhul procession. The outspoken TMC leader was equally expressive about his purpose of taking part in the procession when he danced with people upto few distance.
The BJP’s Candidate Ram Tahal Chaudhary met people residing in rural areas and celebrated Sarhul with them. The moment was precious for the candidates in poll fray and most them evidently reached out to masses through banners and posters besides wishing them in person at many locations.