The first phase of polling for the Bihar Legislative Assembly Election 2025 concluded peacefully on Thursday, witnessing a voter turnout of approximately 60.13% by 5 p.m., according to data released by the Election Commission of India. The polling covered 121 constituencies spread across 18 districts, marking the beginning of a crucial electoral battle in the politically significant state.
Smooth Polling and Strong Participation
Voting began at 7 a.m. amid tight security and continued till 6 p.m. in most areas, with some booths closing earlier in Naxal affected regions. Long queues were seen outside polling stations as voters, including first time participants, turned out in large numbers to exercise their democratic right.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar reiterated the commission’s “zero tolerance policy for violence and malpractice,” noting that no major incident of disturbance was reported during the day. Over 60,000 security personnel, including central paramilitary forces, were deployed to ensure smooth conduct of elections.
The Contest: NDA vs Mahagathbandhan
This election is a direct contest between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (United) led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the opposition Mahagathbandhan, headed by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav.
Also in the fray is Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party, which, though contesting independently, is expected to influence outcomes in several key constituencies. Both alliances have aggressively campaigned, with rallies by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Nitish Kumar and Tejashwi Yadav drawing massive crowds.
Key Issues Driving the Election
The primary issues dominating the campaign include Unemployment, Inflation, Infrastructure and Corruption. The NDA has sought votes based on its record of governance, Welfare schemes and Development projects, while the opposition has criticized the government over rising prices and lack of job opportunities.
Voters interviewed across polling centers shared mixed opinions while some credited the ruling government for welfare benefits, others demanded better employment avenues and education reforms.
Security and Voter Facilities
To ensure voter safety, especially in sensitive regions, polling booths were equipped with CCTV surveillance, webcasting and drone monitoring. Special arrangements were made for women, elderly voters and differently abled persons, including wheelchair assistance and separate queues.
Next Phases and Results
The second phase of polling will take place on November 11, covering the remaining constituencies. The counting of votes and announcement of results are scheduled for November 14, 2025.
Political analysts say the strong voter turnout in the first phase reflects both public enthusiasm and intense competition between the major political blocs. The outcome, they suggest, could reshape Bihar’s political landscape and influence national politics ahead of future elections.
