Four voters in Bihar have found themselves in legal trouble after allegedly photographing electronic voting machines (EVMs) and sharing the images on social media platforms during the first phase of state assembly elections.
Legal Action Across Multiple Districts
The cases were officially registered across three different districts where polling occurred on Thursday. The incidents took place in Ara, Gopalganj and Saran districts, all of which participated in the initial phase of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025.
Election officials confirmed that legal proceedings have been initiated against the four individuals under relevant sections of election laws. The actions represent a clear violation of election protocols that strictly prohibit photography inside polling stations.
Election Day Violations
According to officials familiar with the matter, the voters captured images of the EVM units while casting their votes or while present in the polling stations. These photographs were subsequently uploaded to various social media platforms, drawing the attention of election authorities.
The first phase of polling took place on Thursday, November 6, 2025, marking the beginning of the crucial state assembly elections. Election Commission guidelines explicitly forbid the use of mobile phones and photography within polling booths to maintain the integrity and secrecy of the voting process.
Consequences and Election Integrity
The booking of these four voters underscores the Election Commission's strict stance against any activities that could compromise electoral transparency. Such violations are taken seriously as they potentially threaten the sanctity of the democratic process.
Election authorities have reinforced their commitment to ensuring free and fair elections in Bihar, with strict monitoring of social media platforms for any content that violates election codes of conduct. The cases serve as a warning to other voters about the serious consequences of breaching election protocols.
As the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 progress through subsequent phases, officials have indicated they will maintain heightened vigilance against similar violations, particularly those involving digital platforms and social media.
