The Ranchi civic election battle has taken a tasty yet contentious turn. Congress activists marched to the State Election Commission today, urging crackdown on BJP’s alleged ploy of doling out photo-branded biscuits to woo voters ahead of the 2026 polls.
BJP’s mayoral contender, symbolized by a biscuit, has supporters flooding markets with custom packets showcasing his image. The stunt peaked at a site adorned with PM Modi’s giant poster—a move Congress slams as a confession of local weakness. ‘They’re clutching at Modi’s coattails because their man is sinking,’ party leaders declared during the submission.
What elevates this from gimmick to grievance? A video circulated by a BJP provincial executive on Facebook, meticulously documenting the handouts. Congress presented it as Exhibit A, insisting it’s a blueprint for code-breaking voter manipulation via free food.
Election norms strictly bar such inducements, viewing them as undue influence. As Jharkhand’s political temperature rises, this episode highlights BJP’s adaptive—but risky—strategies amid slipping ground support.
Observers note the irony: a humble biscuit becoming a flashpoint in urban electoral wars. The Commission’s deliberation will gauge tolerance for innovation versus infraction. For Congress, it’s vindication time; for BJP, a potential setback. Ranchi’s mandate hangs in the balance, sweetened by controversy.