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A challenging task for observers to track poll expenditure

Satyasundar Barik

Money and muscle power likely to dominate in Champua

BHUBANESWAR: In the past 58 years of electoral history of Orissa, the sleepy Assembly constituency of Champua in tribal-dominated Keonjhar district has hardly stirred up political circle in the State. But this election is all set to spring a surprise. It will prove to be a challenge for election observers to keep track of mammoth election budget.

The reason behind sudden rise in political temperature in the tribal heartland is change in status of constituency in the delimitation process. The constituency reserved for Scheduled Tribe category has been earmarked for general caste people, who have been resource-rich. In fact, it is the only general category assembly segment in the whole district.

One can also blame the price rise of iron ore in international market during past decade for surge in ambitions of aspirants. Economy of Champua now revolves around the intense extraction of iron ore. Block presidents, Kusha Apat of BJD and Sanatan Mahakud of Congress, who have considerable interest in iron ore transportations in the region, are emerging as major contenders. Murali Sharma, who is likely get nomination from BJP, is also in the race.

Vital factor

Although aspirants may not able to attract voters attention due to their feeble educational qualifications, their influence over the local community through iron ore trade will prove to be a vital factor. Champua, which is bordering to Jharkhand, is also slowly imbibing different electoral character. Money and muscle powers are likely to dominate the forthcoming election in the mineral-rich region of the district, said Bhagirathi Mohanta, president of Keonjhar Citizens Forum. In the projected high profile electoral battles, important issues like critical condition of approach roads, lack of adequate community health facilities, low level of education, environment and pollution would lose their presence, Mr. Mohanta said.

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