Patna, July 30: Voting is underway for the Bankipur Assembly by-elections in Bihar’s capital, Patna. Long queues of voters have been seen at polling stations since morning. Alongside regular voters, central ministers, MPs, MLAs, and other political leaders have exercised their voting rights, urging citizens to participate actively in this democratic process.
BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad cast his vote at a polling station in a women’s college in Patna. He mentioned that he has been voting at this booth for nearly 20 years. Expressing his support for the BJP and NDA candidates, he expressed confidence that voter turnout would increase as the day progresses, with many citizens exercising their rights.
Ravi Shankar Prasad’s wife, Maya Shankar, also voted and emphasized that she always considers development when casting her vote. She stated that voting is both a right and a duty for every citizen and urged all voters to step out and participate.
Bihar government minister Ashok Chaudhary highlighted the importance of continuous engagement between elected representatives and their constituents. He noted that the public expects to connect with their representatives not just during elections but throughout their tenure. He stressed that representatives must remain accessible to address development, public welfare, and personal issues.
Chaudhary also mentioned that BJP leader Nitin Nabin has been elected as an MLA from Bankipur four times and is now the national president of the party. He attributed this to the trust and support of the local populace. The current BJP candidate is also a grassroots worker, he added.
His wife, Neeta Keshkar Chaudhary, stated, “The main issue is development, and we want the progress made so far to continue. Safety, especially for women, is also a significant concern for us.”
BJP leader S.S. Ahluwalia remarked after voting that the greatest strength of democracy is the participation of the public. He expressed satisfaction that a large number of people are reaching polling stations despite the by-elections, reflecting strong public faith in the democratic system.
JDU MLA Shyam Rajak also voted with his family in the morning. He emphasized that voting is the most crucial right in a democracy and urged every citizen to vote without fear or hesitation.
BJP national spokesperson Guru Prakash stated, “Voting is our democratic right. Elections are a celebration of democracy, and everyone should participate in this festivity. Bankipur is our family, and we are confident that the people here will stand for development.”
He added, “Elections must always be free, fair, transparent, and independent. The electoral process should not be manipulated or interfered with in any way.”
In response to the late-night visit of Jan Suraj Party founder Prashant Kishor to the Jakkanpur police station, Guru Prakash remarked, “Forget about him. He will disappear after today. It holds no significance. By this evening and certainly by August 3, he will be finished.”
A voter at the polling station also encouraged others to exercise their voting rights with the message, “First vote, then refreshments.”
Leave a Comment