The first phase of Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 will see 1,314 candidates contesting across 121 constituencies in 18 districts. The Election Commission rejected 315 nominations after scrutiny, while 61 candidates withdrew. The polls, scheduled for November 6, mark a crucial start to the two-phase electoral battle in the state.
Electoral Heat Rises in Bihar: First Phase Sees 1,314 Candidates Battle Across 121 Seats
The political landscape in Bihar is gearing up for a high-stakes contest as the first phase of the 2025 Assembly Elections prepares to unfold on November 6. According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), 1,314 candidates will contest across 121 constituencies in 18 districts, following the conclusion of the nomination and withdrawal process.
Key Highlights from the First Phase:
Nomination Overview
A total of 1,690 nominations were filed between October 10 and 17.
After scrutiny on October 18, 315 nominations were rejected due to procedural and eligibility issues.
An additional 61 candidates withdrew, leaving 1,314 in the fray.
Districts in Focus
The first phase covers key districts including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, Siwan, and Kudhni, among others.
Muzaffarpur and Kudhni emerged as hotspots, each fielding 20 candidates, the highest in this phase.
Election Timeline
The second phase of polling is scheduled for November 11, with results to be declared on November 14.
The final date for filing nominations for phase two ended on October 21.
Political Undercurrents
Allegations of intimidation and pressure tactics surfaced, with Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party accusing senior BJP leaders of coercing candidates to withdraw.
These claims have added tension to an already competitive electoral atmosphere.
Voter Engagement and Security
The ECI has ramped up voter awareness campaigns and security arrangements, especially in sensitive zones.
Over 1.5 crore voters are expected to participate in the first phase.
Diverse Candidate Pool
The contest includes veteran politicians, debutants, and independents, reflecting Bihar’s dynamic political spectrum.
Women candidates and youth leaders have also shown increased participation.
As Bihar enters election mode, the first phase sets the tone for a vibrant and closely watched democratic exercise, with regional dynamics and national implications at play.
Sources: Free Press Journal