Bihar Elections 2025: Tejashwi Yadav Challenges EC on Gender-Wise Voting Data
The Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 have begun with controversy as RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav accuses the Election Commission (EC) of withholding gender-wise voter turnout data for Phase I. Yadav’s demand for transparency has intensified political tensions in Bihar, where women voters play a decisive role.
Tejashwi Yadav’s Allegations: Is the EC Hiding Data?
On [Date], Yadav publicly questioned the EC’s silence, posting on Twitter/X:
“Why hasn’t the EC released gender-wise voting figures for Phase I? Bihar deserves transparency.”
Political analysts suggest Yadav’s move is strategic—women voters have been pivotal in Bihar elections, with parties like RJD and JD(U) banking on welfare schemes targeting them. A lack of data could obscure shifts in voter behavior, impacting campaign strategies.
EC’s Silence Fuels Suspicion
The Election Commission has yet to respond, though sources cite delays in verifying gender-disaggregated data. Critics argue that in a digital era, such delays erode trust. Historically, Bihar’s EC releases aggregate turnout first, with demographic details later.
Why Women’s Voting Data Matters in Bihar
Bihar’s politics increasingly hinges on women’s participation:
– 2020 Elections: Women outvoted men in key seats.
– Schemes like Bicycles for Girls & Alcohol Ban boosted female turnout.
If Phase I data shows lower female participation, it could signal policy dissatisfaction. Conversely, higher numbers may validate ruling alliance campaigns. Without data, parties can’t adjust outreach effectively.
Opposition Backs Tejashwi, BJP Defends EC
- Congress supported Yadav’s demand for “full disclosure.”
- BJP dismissed concerns, calling EC’s process “systematic and fair.”
Bigger Issue: Electoral Transparency in India
This controversy underscores demands for:
✅ Real-time gender/age-wise data
✅ Booth-level transparency
Experts argue timely disclosures could reduce post-election disputes.
What’s Next?
As Phase II voting nears, pressure mounts on the EC to release Phase I gender data. If delayed further, legal challenges or protests may follow. Yadav’s stance could rally his base, positioning him as a watchdog of electoral integrity.
Follow NextMinuteNews for live Bihar 2025 election updates.
