Bihar Phase 2 Elections: High-Stakes Battle for 122 Seats
The political fate of Bihar hangs in balance as the second and final phase of the Bihar Assembly Election 2025 commences today. Voting across 122 constituencies began at 7 AM, marking a crucial moment in the state's political landscape that could determine whether Chief Minister Nitish Kumar continues his nearly two-decade reign or faces defeat.
Key Regions and Voting Patterns
This decisive phase covers several significant regions including Mithila, Kosi belt, western Bihar, Magadh, Angika and the politically sensitive Seemanchal area. Seemanchal has historically recorded higher voter turnout in previous elections, making it a region of particular interest for political analysts and parties alike. All eyes are watching to see if this trend continues in the 2025 elections.
The first phase of polling held on November 6 set an encouraging precedent, with voter turnout reaching 64.66% across 121 constituencies in 18 districts. This represents a significant jump from the 57.29% recorded during the 2020 Assembly elections, indicating heightened voter engagement in this electoral battle.
Political Alliances and Key Contenders
The electoral contest pits the ruling NDA against the INDIA bloc, with both coalitions putting forth their strongest efforts. The NDA hopes to maintain its hold on the state government, while the opposition alliance comprising RJD and Congress aims to break JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar's impressive almost 20-year run as Bihar's Chief Minister.
Among the prominent candidates in this phase is Bijendra Prasad Yadav, a veteran JD(U) leader and the most senior member of the state cabinet, who is seeking to retain his Supaul seat for a record eighth term. His campaign represents the experience and stability that the NDA is highlighting in its election narrative.
The political dynamics have shifted significantly since the 2015 Bihar elections when RJD and JD(U) fought together and emerged victorious. However, that alliance dissolved soon after, leading to the current political configuration where RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, supported by Congress, is fighting to break what many describe as the RJD's electoral jinx and return to power.
Counting Schedule and Future Implications
The election process will culminate with counting of votes scheduled for November 14, when the final results will determine the political direction of Bihar for the next five years. The outcome of this election is particularly significant given Bihar's importance in national politics and the ongoing realignment of political forces at both state and national levels.
As voters across these 122 constituencies exercise their democratic right, the entire nation watches closely, aware that the results could signal broader political trends and potentially reshape power equations beyond Bihar's borders. The high voter turnout in the first phase suggests that citizens are actively participating in shaping their state's future through this democratic exercise.
