Distribution of puffed rice, chickpeas, and chanachur
A festive atmosphere has gripped the state as polling began for the first phase of the assembly elections. Voters have been gathering outside booths since morning. After casting their votes, many are stopping at temporary camps set up by political parties outside the booths. Some places are serving tea, paan, and bidis, while others are offering biryani packets. But in Belpahari in Jhargram, puffed rice, chickpeas, and chanachur are being distributed. Political party workers said that giving voters puffed rice and chickpeas after voting is a tradition in both Lok Sabha and assembly elections.
Workers and supporters are sitting on mats.
In the Belpahari area of Jhargram, voting is not just a duty but a social festival. Separate camps of Trinamool and BJP have been set up at some distance from the polling station. Workers and supporters are sitting on mats spread there. They have arranged this food for the voters.
Binpur assembly constituency
In Kodpura of Jambani in the Binpur assembly constituency, puffed rice and boiled chickpeas are being served by Trinamool. People coming out after voting are spending some time at the camp eating this food.
On the other hand, at Notachua near Balichua booth, BJP is serving puffed rice and chanachur. This arrangement for voters has been going on vigorously since morning.
Naba Patra, BJP booth president of Balichua booth, said, "We have a tradition of serving puffed rice, boiled chickpeas, and chanachur during elections. About 10 sacks of puffed rice have been finished since morning. Since the boiled chickpeas are over, chanachur is now being served with puffed rice."
There is also distinct enthusiasm among voters regarding this arrangement. Many are saying that such hospitality while coming to vote adds to the joy of the democratic festival for them.
However, the administration is also keeping an eye on such camps. Security forces are maintaining strict vigilance to ensure that polling is conducted peacefully. Despite the battle of political ideologies, this "food politics" for voters has enhanced the festive spirit. Spontaneous participation of common people has been observed throughout the day despite tight security.
Despite the battle of political ideologies, this "food politics" for voters has enhanced the festive spirit. Spontaneous participation of common people has been observed throughout the day despite tight security.
For the people of Jhargram, voting means not just democratic rights but a social gathering. This is what local residents are saying.
