The six-month-long political deadlock in Garkha block, Chapra, concluded on Wednesday with Phool Jahan Begum being unanimously elected as Block Pramukh and Rakesh Kumar as Deputy Pramukh. These positions had been vacant since May, following a no-confidence motion passed against the then-Pramukh Renu Devi and Deputy Pramukh Sunaina Devi.

Following directives from the State Election Commission and the Panchayati Raj Department, elections were held. Phool Jahan Begum was the sole candidate for the Pramukh post and received the support of all 32 present Panchayat Samiti members, leading to her unopposed election. Out of 35 total Panchayat Samiti members in Garkha block, 32 participated in the election process.

For the Deputy Pramukh position, the contest was between Rakesh Kumar and Ajit Kumar. After voting, Rakesh Kumar secured 19 votes, while Ajit Kumar received 12 votes. One vote was declared invalid. Consequently, Rakesh Kumar won the Deputy Pramukh post by a margin of seven votes.

SDM-cum-Election Officer Nitesh Kumar stated that the election process was conducted peacefully and transparently. Prior to the elections, there were discussions in political circles about pilgrimage trips and alleged horse-trading to gain members' support, though these claims were not officially confirmed. With the election of the new Pramukh and Deputy Pramukh, it is expected that development work in Garkha block will gain momentum.