The last phase of voting began today in the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 under tight security across 20 districts. More than 1,300 candidates were contesting for 122 assembly seats in this final and decisive phase that would determine who would govern Bihar next.
Polling started at 7 a.m. and was to be held until 6 p.m., though in some sensitive areas it would close earlier for security reasons; voter enthusiasm could be seen from long queues outside the booths despite the morning chill. Initial reports indicated a nearly 15 per cent voter turnout by 9 a.m.
Districts going to polls in this phase are East Champaran, West Champaran, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia, Katihar, Bhagalpur, Banka, Jamui, Nawada, Gaya, Aurangabad, Jehanabad, Arwal, Kaimur, Rohtas and Sheohar. These regions are considered crucial as they include several politically sensitive and demographically diverse constituencies.
Security has been significantly strengthened with paramilitary forces deployed at sensitive polling booths to ensure peaceful voting. Drones and CCTV surveillance are being used to monitor polling activities. Despite these measures, isolated incidents of violence and technical glitches in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were reported in some areas, but polling continued smoothly after quick resolutions.
The Election Commission of India has requested voters to come out in large numbers to exercise their democratic right. Special arrangements have been made for elderly and differently-abled voters, including wheelchairs and queue management.
This phase is expected to be crucial for both the ruling NDA alliance under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar as well as the opposition Grand Alliance (Mahagathbandhan) led by Tejashwi Yadav; it will finally decide if Nitish Kumar retains power or if Bihar experiences a political shift with new leadership.
Women and first-time voters are perceived as key elements that may sway the outcome in the end. Several constituencies located within Seemanchal—which are known for their high turnout—are expected to play an important part in deciding results.
By day’s end, all 1,302 candidates contesting this phase will have had their fates sealed inside Electronic Voting Machines. Votes will be counted on November 14, with results showing which alliance controls Bihar for five years henceforth.
