October 26, 2024: In a significant move to boost voter engagement ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been appointed as the brand ambassador for Jharkhand. The announcement was made by Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar during a press conference held in Ranchi on Friday.

Kumar confirmed that Dhoni has consented to allow the Election Commission to use his image to promote voter mobilization efforts. "We are in touch with him for other details. Mahendra Singh Dhoni will work for the mobilization of voters," Kumar stated, emphasizing the importance of the cricket legend’s involvement in raising electoral awareness under the Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SWEEP) program.

With the elections set to take place in 43 constituencies in the first phase on November 13, the Election Commission aims to leverage Dhoni's widespread popularity to inspire greater voter turnout, particularly among younger demographics.

In parallel developments, the filing of nominations concluded on Friday, with several key political figures entering the fray. Former Chief Minister Champai Soren filed his nomination as the BJP candidate from Saraikela, asserting that the Congress party and its allies lack presence in Jharkhand. Additionally, Sudesh Mahato, president of the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) and former deputy Chief Minister, filed his nomination from the Silli assembly constituency.

As political parties gear up for the elections, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has already released its first list of 35 candidates on October 23, while the BJP announced its first list of 66 candidates on October 19. The political landscape is intensifying as parties finalize their strategies and alliances ahead of the polls.