As the Bihar Assembly elections draw near, stringent measures are being implemented to guarantee a smooth and secure polling process. A significant part of these preparations involves the state administration’s directive to close all educational institutions in the districts participating in the first phase of voting. This crucial step aims to encourage widespread voter participation and uphold law and order throughout the election period.
The initial phase of voting will encompass 121 assembly seats spread across 17 districts in both North and South Bihar. Polling stations will be open from 7 AM to 6 PM. The Election Commission has underscored the importance of peaceful voting, deploying a substantial force of officials and security personnel to supervise the entire exercise.
Educational Institutions to Close in 17 Districts
The Election Commission has mandated the closure of all schools and colleges in the 17 districts slated for Phase I polling on the day of voting. This includes institutions located in:
This initiative ensures that students, teachers, and administrative staff can all participate in the democratic process without any obstacles. Furthermore, it helps prevent potential disruptions at polling centers, which are frequently established within or adjacent to educational facilities.
List of Constituencies in Phase I
The following 121 assembly constituencies will participate in the first phase of voting:
Overview of the First Phase and Security Measures
This initial phase will witness voting across a diverse range of constituencies, including crucial seats in Patna and other districts. To manage the entire election process, a massive force of 850,000 officials has been deployed statewide. This includes 453,000 polling personnel, 250,000 police personnel, over 28,000 counting staff, and 18,000 micro-observers.
Tight security protocols will also be enforced at nomination centers, where candidates are currently filing their papers for the 121 assembly seats, with the deadline set for October 17. Strict regulations limit the number of individuals accompanying candidates to five, including the candidate themselves. Furthermore, videography will be utilized to monitor the entire nomination process, ensuring transparency and preventing any potential malpractices.
Detailed List of Constituencies and Districts Involved
The first phase comprises a comprehensive list of constituencies, such as Alamnagar, Bihariganj, Darbhanga Rural, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, Siwan, Vaishali, Samastipur, Begusarai, Munger, Nalanda, Patna Sahib, Danapur, Arrah, Buxar, and many others. These 121 seats are spread across the 17 designated districts, encompassing both urban and rural areas with varying demographic profiles.
Voting is slated to occur from 7 AM to 6 PM in all these constituencies. The Election Commission strongly encourages the public to fully cooperate with election officials and adhere to all guidelines issued for the smooth and fair conduct of the elections.
Closing and Withdrawal Dates for Nominations
The window for filing nominations for Phase I will close on October 17, followed by the scrutiny of submitted papers on October 18. Candidates will have until October 20 to withdraw their nominations if they choose to do so. The counting of votes for both phases of the elections is scheduled for November 14, after the second phase of polling concludes on November 11.
These upcoming elections hold significant importance as both major political alliances, the NDA and the Grand Alliance, strive to maintain and expand their influence. The keenly contested seats in this first phase are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the ultimate outcome of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025.