Bihar Records Historic 65.08 Percent Voter Turnout in First Phase of Assembly Polls

Patna, November 8: Bihar has created electoral history with a record voter turnout of 65.08 percent in the first phase of the assembly elections held on November 6, the Election Commission of India confirmed on Friday. This marks the highest-ever participation in the state’s history, surpassing all previous election records and reflecting a significant surge in civic engagement among voters.

According to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Bihar, approximately 3.75 crore voters were eligible to cast their votes across 45,341 polling stations, including 36,733 located in rural areas. The first phase covered a large cross-section of the electorate and saw voters deciding the political fate of 1,314 candidates, comprising 1,192 men and 122 women.

The Election Commission described the turnout as “historic,” noting that the voter participation rate witnessed an impressive 7.79 percent jump compared to the 2020 assembly elections, when the turnout stood at 57.29 percent. This rise, officials said, underscores growing public confidence in the electoral process and the strong influence of voter awareness campaigns initiated by the Election Commission and local authorities.

Among the most noteworthy trends of this phase was the exceptional participation of women voters, who turned out in large numbers across the state. Out of the total 3.75 crore electorate, 1.98 crore were men and 1.76 crore were women. Polling data revealed that in several constituencies, the percentage of women voters surpassed that of men, continuing a trend observed in recent elections in Bihar where women have emerged as a decisive electoral force.

District-wise data highlighted outstanding voter participation in Muzaffarpur and Samastipur, which recorded over 70 percent turnout each. Muzaffarpur led with 71.81 percent, closely followed by Samastipur at 71.74 percent. Other districts such as Madhepura (69.59), Saharsa (69.38), Vaishali (68.50), and Khagaria (67.90) also reported strong polling numbers. Meanwhile, Patna recorded 59.02 percent voter turnout, Lakhisarai 64.98 percent, Munger 62.74 percent, and Siwan 60.61 percent.

Officials credited the peaceful conduct of polling to robust security arrangements, efficient coordination among election personnel, and the use of advanced monitoring systems. The Election Commission deployed micro-observers, webcasting, and real-time data reporting to ensure transparency and prevent malpractice. The Commission also noted that the enthusiasm of voters remained high despite logistical challenges in some rural pockets.

Election analysts have interpreted the record turnout as an indicator of high public interest, with voters across rural and urban constituencies keen on shaping the state’s political direction. The strong participation of youth and first-time voters was also cited as a significant factor driving the turnout surge.

With the first phase now complete, attention shifts to the remaining 122 constituencies of the 243-member Bihar Legislative Assembly, which will go to polls in the second phase on November 11. The counting of votes is scheduled for November 14, with results expected to set the tone for Bihar’s political landscape over the next five years.

Political observers believe that this record-breaking voter participation will likely redefine traditional voting patterns in Bihar, especially with increased female and youth engagement. The Election Commission has urged voters to maintain the same enthusiasm and discipline in the upcoming phases to ensure another peaceful and participatory electoral exercise.

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