Jharkhand Municipal Elections Under Scrutiny: Bail-Released Offenders to Attend Weekly Police Parade

Ranchi, Jharkhand: With municipal elections around the corner, Ranchi Police are on high alert to ensure peaceful voting in the city. Over 500 individuals with criminal backgrounds have been issued notices under Section 163, and those released on bail will now have to report to their local police stations weekly as part of a strict monitoring mechanism.

Tough Measures for Potential Election Disruptors:

Under the directives of City SP Paras Rana, all DSPs and station heads have been tasked with verifying the backgrounds of suspected offenders. The administration has made it clear that any attempt to disrupt the electoral process or instigate violence will not be tolerated. Police are combing through past records and keeping a 24-hour watch on suspicious activities to allow citizens to exercise their voting rights without fear.

Weekly Police Reporting for Bail-Released Offenders:

As part of a new verification campaign, individuals released from jail on bail will now be required to report to their designated police station every week or once every 15 days. SP Rana has ordered that detailed lists of such offenders be maintained, ensuring authorities are aware of their current whereabouts and activities.

Election Schedule for Ranchi Municipal Corporation:

The Jharkhand State Election Commission has announced the schedule for municipal elections across all 48 civic bodies, including Ranchi:

• Last Date for Filing Nominations: 4 February 2026 (closed)
• Scrutiny of Nominations: 5 February 2026
• Last Date for Withdrawal of Nominations: 6 February 2026
• Polling Date: 23 February 2026
• Counting and Results: 27 February 2026

Over 500 Notices Issued Under Section 163:

In a precautionary move, the Ranchi Police have already served Section 163 notices to over 500 individuals with a history of criminal or disruptive behavior. Those considered likely to interfere with the election are required to appear before the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) and sign a peace bond. Violation of the bond will lead to immediate imprisonment.

The police’s proactive measures are aimed at ensuring a fair and violence-free election, sending a strong message that criminal interference will not be tolerated in Jharkhand’s civic polls.