Historic Voter Participation Marks Bihar's Second Phase Elections
Defying the early morning cold and potentially surpassing all previous polling records in the state, citizens came out in massive numbers for the second phase of assembly elections in Bihar on Tuesday. The electoral process covered 122 assembly constituencies, demonstrating the vibrant health of Indian democracy.
Elderly Voters Inspire with Determination
Long queues formed at polling stations since morning as residents braved the November chill to exercise their democratic right. The cold weather failed to discourage numerous elderly voters who, similar to the first phase, preferred in-person voting at booths over the "vote from home" facility provided by the Election Commission of India for electors above 85 years of age.
Some voters particularly captured attention by arriving at polling stations with medical support. Arun Kumar Singh from Bhagalpur, who had been using an oxygen mask for four years, cast his vote with his wife Swarnlata accompanying him. His wife expressed, "This is the biggest festival of democracy, and I told my husband not to miss it. I said I will be there with him."
The democratic spirit transcended generations as 104-year-old Savitri Devi arrived at a polling booth in Chanpatiya with her grandson and great grandson. Similarly, 100-year-old Surya Dev Mehta in Dhamdhaha, Purnia, traveled on a motorcycle with his grandson and son to exercise his franchise.
Unique Expressions of Democratic Enthusiasm
One of the most discussed moments emerged from Katihar, where a young farmer named Anand Kumar Singh rode to his polling station on a buffalo adorned with a garland. Dressed in formal coat and pants, Singh explained that he took inspiration from Vaishali voter Kedar Yadav who had similarly ridden a bovine during the first phase. "I am a farmer, and cattle and farmland are my identity," stated Singh, who covered over 2 kilometers on his buffalo to reach the polling booth from his home.
Celebrating Democracy as a Festival
The election day transformed into a genuine festival of democracy, with district administrations across the state organizing various cultural programs to encourage voter participation. Local artists performed tribal and folk dances at multiple locations, while some polling stations welcomed voters with flowers.
Rahul Raj from Purnia perfectly captured the prevailing sentiment, remarking, "It gives the feeling of a festival." The extensive arrangements and cultural initiatives by local administrations significantly contributed to boosting voter turnout, making the electoral process both accessible and celebratory for all citizens.
The massive participation across age groups and communities in this second phase demonstrates the deepening of democratic roots in Bihar, setting a remarkable precedent for future elections in the state and reinforcing India's commitment to inclusive electoral processes.
