Patna, November 6, 2025 – Democracy took center stage across Bihar as the Bihar elections Phase 1 voting commenced with remarkable enthusiasm. Voters across 121 constituencies demonstrated their commitment to shaping the state’s future. By 11:00 AM, over 27.5% of the eligible electorate had exercised their franchise, marking an impressive start to this crucial electoral battle.
Strong Voter Participation Marks Morning Hours
The Bihar elections Phase 1 voting began at 7:00 AM sharp across 18 districts. Early morning witnessed steady footfall at polling stations spread throughout the state. From rural villages to urban centers, citizens queued up with determination to cast their ballots. The Election Commission reported that 13.13% voter turnout was recorded by 9:00 AM, which steadily climbed as the morning progressed.
“Vote and inspire others to vote,” Chief Minister Nitish Kumar urged citizens through his social media post after casting his vote at Bakhtiyarpur.
The polling momentum picked up significantly during mid-morning hours. Moreover, the enthusiasm demonstrated by first-time voters added a fresh dimension to the democratic exercise. Approximately 10.72 lakh new voters registered for this election, including 7.78 lakh youth in the 18-19 age group.
District-Wise Turnout Reveals Varied Enthusiasm
Among the 18 districts participating in the Bihar elections Phase 1 voting, Saharsa emerged as the frontrunner. The district recorded the highest turnout at 15.27% by 9:00 AM. Following closely, Begusarai registered 14.60%, while Muzaffarpur showed 14.38% participation during the initial hours.
Interestingly, Khagaria and Gopalganj also demonstrated strong voter engagement. These districts recorded 14.15% and 13.97% turnout respectively by early morning. Rural areas particularly showed remarkable participation, with voters walking long distances to reach polling booths.
However, Lakhisarai reported the lowest figures at just 7% during early hours. Similarly, the state capital Patna recorded only 11.22% turnout initially. Nevertheless, polling officials remained optimistic about improvement as the day progressed.
High-Stakes Battles Define First Phase
The Bihar elections Phase 1 voting holds immense significance for several political heavyweights. Tejashwi Yadav, the Mahagathbandhan’s chief ministerial candidate, seeks a hat-trick victory from Raghopur constituency. His family stronghold has been a RJD bastion for decades. Additionally, Lalu Prasad Yadav and his wife Rabri Devi cast their votes early, setting an example for others.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary faces a crucial test in Tarapur constituency. The BJP leader contests against RJD’s Arun Kumar in what promises to be a closely fought battle. Furthermore, another Deputy CM, Vijay Kumar Sinha, seeks re-election from Lakhisarai constituency.
In a dramatic turn of events, Tej Pratap Yadav contests from Mahua on his own party’s ticket. The estranged son of Lalu Prasad faces RJD’s sitting MLA Mukesh Kumar Raushan. This family feud adds an emotional dimension to the Bihar elections Phase 1 voting.
“Twenty years is enough! A Tejashwi-led government is essential for a new Bihar,” declared Lalu Prasad Yadav after casting his vote, drawing a parallel between politics and roti on a hot tawa.
Alliances Lock Horns Across Constituencies
The electoral battlefield witnesses a fierce contest between two major alliances. The National Democratic Alliance comprises BJP, JD(U), LJP (Ram Vilas), HAM, and RLM. On the opposing side, the Mahagathbandhan brings together RJD, Congress, CPI, CPI(ML), and VIP.
Additionally, Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party has emerged as a potential game-changer. The poll strategist-turned-politician fielded candidates across all 243 seats statewide. His party’s impact during the Bihar elections Phase 1 voting could prove decisive in several close contests.
A total of 1,314 candidates vie for electoral victory across 121 seats. Among them, 122 women candidates seek to make their mark. The political fate of 16 state government ministers hangs in balance during this phase.
Massive Arrangements Ensure Smooth Polling
The Election Commission deployed comprehensive arrangements for the Bihar elections Phase 1 voting. A total of 45,341 polling stations were set up, with 36,733 located in rural areas. Each constituency received dedicated attention with one General Observer appointed per seat.
Security measures remained stringent throughout the state. Central Armed Police Forces and state police personnel maintained vigilance at sensitive locations. Webcasting facilities were installed at all polling stations to ensure transparency and prevent malpractices.
However, polling hours were reduced in six constituencies due to security concerns. Simri Bakhtiyarpur, Mahishi, Tarapur, Munger, Jamalpur, and 56 booths in Suryagarha witnessed polling until 5:00 PM instead of 6:00 PM. Despite this, the overall arrangements facilitated smooth voting across most locations.
Special Initiatives Promote Inclusivity
Remarkable efforts were made to ensure inclusive participation during the Bihar elections Phase 1 voting. The Election Commission established 926 all-women-managed polling booths across the state. These booths, staffed entirely by women personnel, sent a powerful message about gender equality.
Furthermore, 107 booths were managed exclusively by Divyang (differently-abled) personnel. This initiative showcased the commission’s commitment to empowering all sections of society. Additionally, 320 model booths with enhanced facilities were set up to provide better voting experiences.
The commission also made special provisions for senior citizens and physically challenged voters. Wheelchairs, ramps, and assistance at polling stations ensured that everyone could participate without difficulty. Consequently, voter satisfaction remained high throughout the morning hours.
Political Significance Beyond Numbers
The Bihar elections Phase 1 voting carries implications far beyond state boundaries. Bihar sends 40 members to the Lok Sabha, making it politically crucial for national parties. A strong performance by either alliance could influence coalition dynamics at the national level.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi actively campaigned for NDA candidates during the run-up to polling. His rallies in Chhapra and Muzaffarpur drew massive crowds. Similarly, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addressed multiple gatherings alongside Tejashwi Yadav, focusing on unemployment and governance issues.
The electoral outcome will also determine the future of two political veterans. Nitish Kumar and Lalu Prasad Yadav, both influential figures for over four decades, face what could be their final major electoral test. Their political legacies hang in balance as voters make their choices.
What Lies Ahead
As the Bihar elections Phase 1 voting continues, all eyes remain on the final turnout figures. The second phase is scheduled for November 11, 2025, covering the remaining 122 constituencies. The counting of votes will take place on November 14, determining which alliance will form the next government.
Political analysts suggest that voter turnout trends during the Bihar elections Phase 1 voting could indicate the election’s direction. Higher participation typically reflects strong anti-incumbency or enthusiasm for change. Conversely, lower turnout might suggest voter satisfaction with the status quo.
The battle between NDA’s development agenda and Mahagathbandhan’s social justice platform has reached its decisive moment. Additionally, Jan Suraaj’s emergence as a third alternative adds unpredictability to the equation. Prashant Kishor’s ability to attract youth and educated middle-class voters could split votes in crucial constituencies.
Democracy in Action
The Bihar elections Phase 1 voting exemplifies India’s vibrant democratic traditions. Despite challenges, citizens across rural and urban areas participated with remarkable dedication. From farmers leaving their fields to students taking time from studies, everyone contributed to this democratic exercise.
As evening approaches, final turnout numbers will reveal the complete picture. However, the morning’s enthusiasm suggests that Bihar’s voters have spoken loud and clear. They recognize the importance of their franchise in shaping the state’s developmental trajectory.
The peaceful conduct of polling, combined with robust security arrangements, demonstrates electoral maturity. Ultimately, the real winners are Bihar’s people, who continue to strengthen democratic values through active participation. Their choices today will determine the state’s governance for the next five years.
