In a significant development, the upcoming Lok Sabha elections will witness voting in several interior areas of Singhbhum constituency in Jharkhand, known as a Maoist stronghold. Many of these areas will see polling for the first time or after decades-long gaps. Singhbhum, particularly West Singhbhum district, is among the worst left-wing extremism-affected regions in India. To facilitate voting in remote areas, 118 polling stations will be established, with materials being air-dropped from helicopters. This move aims to ensure democratic participation, especially in regions like Saranda, housing Asia’s densest Sal forest.