​​​​​​​Nuapada, Nov 6: With the political landscape in poll-bound Nuapada in Odisha heating up, ‘silent voters’ are going to play key role in deciding the fate of the contesting candidates.

As the crucial by-election approaches, a notable number of ‘silent voters’ are resisting political pressure and reshaping the local electoral landscape. In many areas, voters are keeping their choices private, leaving party leaders unsure of the outcome.

Meanwhile, the contesting candidates and parties are actively campaigning to woo the voters and gain their support.

In Ghatia Pada village of Komna block, predominantly inhabited by Teli and Yadav communities, with some Majhi and tribal families, the voting pattern has notably shifted from previous elections. Last time, the village head had called a meeting instructing villagers whom to vote for, promising benefits in return. This time, voters are determined to make their own choices.

Janaki Sahu, a local resident, said, “Last time, the village head instructed us to vote for a specific candidate, promising benefits. But after the elections, we received nothing. This time, we will carefully evaluate the candidates and vote for the deserving one.”

Even voters in Manipur and Jatagad panchayats are keeping their choices private. Many participate in rallies and campaign events but stay silent when asked whom they plan to vote for.

Pinki Rana, a local woman, said villagers are more concerned about their own welfare than political pressure, and will vote for candidates who have genuinely helped them in the past.

The practice of voting for candidates based on their commitment to public welfare and development is set to significantly impact the election outcome. These silent voters have the power to change the game and produce unexpected results. Their approach reflects a shift from traditional party-driven politics to issue-based, choice-driven voting.