Historic Voter Participation Marks Bihar's Democratic Exercise
The first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections 2025 concluded with an unprecedented voter turnout of 65.08 percent, setting a new record in the state's electoral history. This remarkable participation occurred on November 6, demonstrating strong public engagement in the democratic process.
Political Battle Intensifies as Campaigning Reaches Fever Pitch
The political atmosphere reached new heights of intensity on Saturday as top leaders from both sides launched sharp attacks. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah targeted the Opposition's governance record, referring to it as "Jungle Raj" and making strong commitments to address national security concerns.
PM Modi, during his final campaign push for the Bihar assembly elections, declared that voters had already delivered the opposition INDIA bloc what he called a "65-volt jhatka" in the first phase. The Prime Minister confidently stated he would return for the swearing-in ceremony of the new NDA government.
Opposition Counters NDA Claims Amid Campaign Controversies
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge strongly dismissed the NDA's claims of certain victory as completely unfounded. Meanwhile, Congress leader Pawan Khera raised serious concerns about electoral integrity, accusing the Election Commission of collaborating in the manipulation of voter lists.
The campaign trail saw its share of controversies when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's absence from Bihar became a point of criticism. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who had traveled to Bihar for campaigning, accused Gandhi of being "on a picnic" and suggested the opposition had effectively conceded defeat by his absence from the poll-bound state.
Rahul Gandhi, who represents the Raebareli constituency in Uttar Pradesh, was reportedly in Madhya Pradesh, a BJP-ruled state, just one day after campaigning in the eastern state where elections are underway.
What Comes Next in Bihar's Electoral Process
All eyes now turn to the second phase of polling scheduled for November 11, where voters will decide the fate of candidates across 122 assembly seats. The election process will culminate with the official results declaration on November 14, determining the political future of Bihar for the coming years.
The record-breaking voter turnout in the first phase indicates heightened public interest and suggests that Bihar's electorate is actively participating in shaping their state's governance direction. Both political alliances are leaving no stone unturned as they approach the crucial second phase of this significant electoral battle.
