In a historic moment for Indian democracy, residents of Kerlapenda village in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district exercised their voting rights for the first time since independence. The village, located in a Naxal-affected region, participated in the Panchayat elections on Sunday under tight security.
Villagers expressed their joy at finally being able to vote. “I have voted for the first time. We had never voted before,” a voter told ANI. Another resident stated, “This is the first time we got the chance to raise our demands in front of leaders. I am happy that we are moving towards development.”
This election also witnessed increased participation from other insurgency-affected areas. During the second phase on February 20, villagers from Bijapur district walked through dense forests and challenging terrains, covering nearly 70 kilometers to cast their votes. These villages, located inside a national park often considered a Naxal stronghold, saw voters demanding better roads, employment opportunities, electricity, pensions, and other basic facilities from the government.
The Chhattisgarh Panchayat elections were conducted in three phases, with the third phase recording a provisional voter turnout of 77.54%, according to official reports. Authorities believe this participation reflects a growing sense of political awareness and hope for development in previously neglected areas.
