Patna: A Wave of Migrants Returns for Chhath and Elections
Patna Junction is bustling with activity as a large number of migrants arrive in the city, drawn by the twin attractions of the Chhath festival and the upcoming assembly elections. Trains from places like Mumbai, Delhi, Gujarat, and Kolkata are filled with people rushing home not only to celebrate their faith but also to cast their votes.
The Chhath festival kicks off this Saturday, and many devotees are using this time to return. However, with the assembly elections set for November 6 and 11, the desire to participate in democracy has intensified the influx of travelers. A good number of these returnees plan to stay until they’ve voted, making this annual journey even more significant.
For many, this timing feels quite fortunate. Mukesh Chauhan, 26, who traveled back from Gujarat to his hometown in Sitamarhi, shared, “It’s easier to travel once instead of twice. I am thankful that Chhath and the elections are so close this year.” Yet, beneath his relief lies an important concern: the necessity of migrating for work. He expressed, “No one would leave Bihar if there were enough job opportunities here.” The Jan Suraaj campaign’s focus on reducing migration and enhancing education has resonated with him. “Their commitment to building schools in every panchayat made me think about my children’s future when I vote,” he added.
Similarly, Ritesh Kumar, 27, who has lived in Delhi for seven years, revealed that his previous loyalty to the BJP has shifted due to Jan Suraaj’s focus on migration issues. He confidently remarked, “A literate government will finally come to Bihar this time.”
As the excitement builds, residents share both nostalgia and hope for a better future. Kundan Kushwaha, 26, from Saran, who works in Ahmedabad, noted, “The roads have improved,” and he intends to remain until November 8 to vote for better infrastructure and education. Anant Kumar from Sasaram concurred, stressing that while improvements are visible, true progress hinges on generating job opportunities. He returned home without a hitch for Chhath but emphasized the need for educational reform following the election.
For Bhupesh Kumar, a 30-year-old quality engineer from Mumbai, taking six days off was crucial to be present for both celebrations and voting. He said, “I just hope that the next government will do what they promise. I dream of a Bihar where no one has to leave home to find work.”
The returning crowd also reflects Bihar’s evolving political landscape. Sunita Devi, 57, newly returned from Kolkata to Vaishali, noted that while Nitish Kumar still holds popularity, Tejashwi Prasad Yadav could make a strong showing. Her motive for voting is centered around addressing rampant unemployment and hunger.
Pooja Kumari, a first-time voter from Raghopur studying in Delhi, is eager to make her voice heard, focusing on opportunities for women in government roles and supporting Tejashwi in the elections.
As the festival and elections approach, the atmosphere in Patna is charged with anticipation and the hope for change among its residents.
