Bihar Assembly Elections: First Phase Polling Begins Today
Polling for the Bihar Assembly elections commenced early Thursday morning, marking a significant step in the electoral process across the state. Voters in 18 districts are participating in this crucial phase, which involves a substantial number of candidates and polling stations.
Voting Details
The first phase of voting began at 7 a.m. and will continue until 6 p.m. in most areas. However, in six constituencies affected by Naxal activities, polling will conclude an hour earlier, at 5 p.m. This election phase encompasses 121 Assembly constituencies, with a total of 1,314 candidates vying for votes, including 1,192 men and 122 women.
According to the Election Commission, approximately 37.5 million electors are eligible to cast their votes. This includes 19.8 million male voters, 17.6 million female voters, and 758 voters from the third gender. The extensive voter base highlights the importance of this electoral event.
Polling Stations and Security Measures
A total of 45,341 polling stations have been established across the state, with 36,733 located in rural areas and 8,608 in urban settings. The Election Commission has designated 320 model polling stations, 926 women-managed stations, and 107 stations specifically for persons with disabilities (PwD). Webcasting facilities are available at all polling stations to ensure transparency.
In light of security concerns, especially in sensitive areas, extensive measures have been implemented. Over 15 battalions of police and paramilitary forces have been deployed to maintain order and prevent any disturbances. The Patna district administration has assured that security personnel are stationed at every polling booth to mitigate the risk of unrest and misinformation.
District-Specific Information
In Patna, there are 5,677 polling stations, which include 541 exclusively for women, 49 model stations, and 14 PwD-friendly booths. Meanwhile, voters in Muzaffarpur are casting their votes at 4,186 polling stations for 11 Assembly seats, with around 3.3 million eligible voters in the district.
In Lakhisarai, where some polling booths are located in Naxal-affected areas, preparations were made in advance, with officials collecting electronic voting machines (EVMs) and other necessary materials from Gandhi Maidan. Special arrangements have been implemented to ensure a smooth voting process in these challenging regions.
Samastipur also began voting for its 10 Assembly constituencies at 7 a.m., with 29.3 million voters expected to participate across 3,603 polling stations.
FAQs
What time does polling end in Bihar’s first phase?
Polling generally ends at 6 p.m., but in six Naxal-affected constituencies, it concludes at 5 p.m.
How many candidates are contesting in this election phase?
A total of 1,314 candidates are contesting in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections.
What security measures are in place for the elections?
Extensive security arrangements include the deployment of over 15 battalions of police and paramilitary forces, with personnel stationed at every polling booth to ensure safety and order.
Conclusion
The first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections is a critical moment for voters across 18 districts. With robust security measures and extensive preparations in place, officials aim to facilitate a free and fair electoral process. As polling continues, the focus remains on ensuring that every eligible voter can participate in shaping the state’s future.
The Bihar Assembly elections are a pivotal event in the political landscape of the state, reflecting the diverse interests and demographics of its electorate. The elections are being closely monitored by various political parties, civil society organizations, and international observers, all of whom emphasize the importance of transparency and fairness in the electoral process. The outcomes of these elections could significantly influence the governance and policy direction of Bihar, which has faced numerous socio-economic challenges in recent years.
In addition to the logistical and security arrangements, the Election Commission has also implemented measures to encourage voter participation, particularly among marginalized groups. Initiatives aimed at increasing awareness about the voting process and the significance of civic engagement have been rolled out, targeting first-time voters and women. These efforts are crucial in a state where voter turnout can be influenced by various factors, including local cultural dynamics and historical voting patterns. As the day progresses, the focus remains on ensuring that the electoral process is conducted smoothly and that voters can exercise their rights without intimidation or hindrance.
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