How Will BJP Retain Migrant Voters After Chhath Puja?
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Synopsis
As Chhath Puja wraps up, the BJP faces a pressing task in Bihar: convincing migrant workers to stay and vote in the upcoming Assembly elections. With millions returning for the festival, the party's outreach efforts could shape the electoral landscape significantly.
Key Takeaways
- The BJP is launching a booth-level campaign targeting migrant voters.
- Over 48 lakh Biharis return home for Chhath Puja annually.
- Logistical support will be provided to facilitate voting.
- Migrant voters can be decisive in closely contested districts.
- The campaign aims to promote democratic participation.
Patna, Oct 23 (NationPress) As the Bihar Assembly elections approach, scheduled for November 6 and 11, shortly after the Chhath Puja festival, the BJP is confronted with a significant challenge: persuading millions of migrant workers to remain and exercise their voting rights before heading back to their jobs across India and beyond.
Official statistics reveal that annually, more than 48 lakh Biharis return home for Chhath celebrations, comprising 45.78 lakh domestic migrants and 2.17 lakh individuals employed overseas.
Yet, numerous migrants are hesitant to prolong their stay for an additional week or more until election day due to concerns about financial setbacks from missing work.
In response, the BJP has initiated an extensive booth-level campaign aimed at maximizing voter retention. Within 48 hours of the Chhath festivities ending, party workers are instructed to conduct door-to-door outreach, encouraging returning migrants and their families to remain until the elections conclude.
"For many workers, staying back after Chhath is a challenging decision due to job commitments, but we are here to assist -- from clarifying the significance of voting to even contacting employers if necessary. This initiative transcends mere votes; it fosters engagement in democracy," shared a BJP insider.
Furthermore, the party's local branches have been assigned to provide logistical support, including transportation and help in organizing seamless return trips post-elections.
Recognizing the potential impact of migrant voters in closely contested districts, the BJP has activated its organizational framework -- from the Panna Pramukh system to booth workers and district leaders -- to forge personal connections with these voters.
Districts with the highest migrant populations include East Champaran (6.14 lakh), Patna (5.68 lakh), Siwan (5.48 lakh), Muzaffarpur (4.31 lakh), and Darbhanga (4.3 lakh).
Most of these areas will vote in the first phase, making the retention of migrants a vital electoral aspect.
As the joyful atmosphere of Chhath transitions into election season, the BJP is committed to ensuring that the "homecoming for Chhath also signifies a homecoming for democracy."
Point of View
The BJP's efforts to retain migrant voters reflect a strategic approach to enhance voter participation in the upcoming Bihar elections. Engaging with migrants is crucial, as their votes could determine the outcome in tight constituencies. The party's focus on logistical support and direct communication demonstrates a commitment to fostering democratic engagement.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is retaining migrant voters important for the BJP?
Retaining migrant voters is crucial because their participation can significantly influence the results in closely contested constituencies, especially with many districts having a high concentration of migrant workers.
What strategies is the BJP using to engage migrant voters?
The BJP is conducting an intensive booth-level campaign that includes door-to-door visits, providing logistical support, and emphasizing the importance of voting to returning migrants and their families.
What challenges do migrant workers face regarding voting?
Many migrant workers are hesitant to stay longer due to job commitments and the potential financial losses they might incur by missing work, making it challenging for them to participate in the elections.
How many Biharis return for Chhath Puja each year?
Over 48 lakh Biharis return home for Chhath celebrations each year, including both domestic and overseas migrants.
What is the significance of the Chhath Puja festival in relation to the elections?
The Chhath Puja festival serves as a crucial time for the BJP to engage with returning migrants, using the festive period to encourage participation in the upcoming elections.
