Bihar witnessed a historic voter turnout in the first phase of its Assembly elections on Thursday, with the Election Commission (EC) reporting the highest participation since 1951.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar hailed the exercise as one conducted with the “purest electoral rolls”, reflecting growing public faith in the democratic process.

Turnout touches 64.66%, highest in seven decades

According to EC data, the voter turnout reached 64.66%, marking a significant rise from 57.29% in the 2020 Assembly elections. The polling covered 121 constituencies across 18 districts, and officials described the response as “exceptional and peaceful.”

“This phase of voting has seen one of the cleanest electoral rolls and the most transparent voting process in Bihar’s history,” said Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, adding that enhanced verification and digital measures ensured minimal duplication and maximum participation.

Smooth polling and high participation

The voting process was largely smooth, with minor technical glitches in a few Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) that were swiftly addressed.

Polling stations reported steady queues throughout the day, with women and first-time voters turning out in large numbers. Election officials attributed the improved participation to better voter awareness campaigns and logistical support in rural areas.

Security personnel were deployed across sensitive constituencies to ensure peaceful polling. The state police and central forces reported no major incidents of violence or disruption.

Voter enthusiasm across districts

Districts such as Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Nalanda, and Purnea recorded especially high turnouts, with several constituencies exceeding 70%.

Local observers said the increase in participation indicated a growing sense of political engagement among youth and rural voters. In several polling booths, elderly voters above 80 years and differently-abled citizens were seen casting their ballots, assisted by volunteers and election staff.

Focus on clean voter rolls and transparency

CEC Gyanesh Kumar highlighted that this election was notable for the use of advanced digital verification systems, which helped maintain accurate voter lists. “The Commission’s efforts to clean up the rolls and remove duplicates have ensured fairness and inclusivity,” he said.

He also praised polling personnel and security forces for ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful first phase.

Next phase of polling

The remaining phases of the Bihar Assembly elections are scheduled to take place later this month, with results expected to be declared in early December.

Election observers predict a strong overall voter turnout this year, continuing the trend seen in the first phase