The Election Commission is planning to conduct the Bihar Assembly elections in two to three phases, similar to the 2020 polls, which were held in three phases. This phased approach aims to streamline logistics and ensure smooth conduct across all 243 assembly seats. The final schedule will be announced after considering the dates of Diwali and Chhath Puja, two major festivals in Bihar, to maximize voter participation and minimize disruptions.
Key Highlights from the Election Commission’s Latest Announcements
- Bihar Assembly elections are expected to be held in October or November 2025, ahead of the current assembly’s term ending on November 22, 2025.
- The polls will likely be conducted in two to three phases, with the Election Commission planning the schedule to avoid clashes with major festivals like Diwali and Chhath.
- Preparations are underway, including intensive training for Booth Level Officers and a focus on updating and verifying the voter list to ensure accuracy and transparency.
- The Election Commission is set to launch a special campaign to enroll first-time voters and address concerns about duplicate voter IDs and AI-generated campaign materials.
- Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is expected to visit Bihar later in June to review poll preparations and consult with local officials.
Preparations and Voter List Integrity
To address past allegations regarding voter lists, the Election Commission is implementing several measures:
- Booth Level Officers are being trained and equipped with ID cards for door-to-door verification of voter details.
- Duplicate voter IDs are being deleted, and the electoral roll is being updated transparently.
- No appeals were filed after the publication of the final electoral rolls in early January 2025, reflecting a cleaner and more accurate voter database.
- A special campaign will focus on enrolling first-time voters, ensuring that the youth have a voice in the upcoming elections.
AI and Campaign Oversight
The Commission is also monitoring the use of artificial intelligence in campaign materials. Notices have been issued to political parties to clearly label AI-generated content, aiming to maintain transparency and prevent misinformation during the election period.
Political Mobilization and Outreach
Political parties are intensifying their preparations. The BJP, for instance, has launched a massive outreach to persuade the estimated 2.75 crore non-resident Biharis to return home and vote, especially around Chhath Puja when special trains are expected to facilitate travel. Other parties are also ramping up their activities, with major rallies and candidate announcements anticipated in the coming weeks.
What’s Next?
With Bihar already in election mode, all eyes are on the Election Commission’s upcoming visit and the official announcement of poll dates. The focus remains on ensuring a fair, transparent, and inclusive electoral process, with the new government expected to be in place before the November 22 deadline.
Sources: Business Today, Moneycontrol, India Today, Prabhat Khabar, Wikipedia
