Bihar’s ‘Mahaparv’ of Democracy Begins
The first phase of the high-stakes Bihar Assembly Election 2025 has officially begun, marking the start of a fierce political battle that will determine the state’s future. Polling is underway across 121 assembly constituencies, serving as a critical litmus test for the two major political forces: the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition Mahagathbandhan.
From the early hours of the morning, voters have been seen in long queues outside polling stations, ready to exercise their democratic right. This initial phase is crucial as it covers nearly half of Bihar’s 243 seats, and the results will heavily influence the narrative for the subsequent stages of the election.
Key Contest: NDA’s ‘Vikas’ vs Mahagathbandhan’s ‘Berozgari’ Plank
This election is being fought on sharply defined battle lines. The incumbent NDA, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, is campaigning on its track record of ‘vikas’ (development), improved law and order, and the power of the “double-engine sarkar” in partnership with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The BJP-JDU alliance is projecting a message of stability and continued progress.
On the other side, the Mahagathbandhan, spearheaded by the Rashtriya Janata Dal’s (RJD) Tejashwi Yadav, has centered its campaign on the pressing issue of unemployment (‘berozgari’). Promising jobs and a new vision for Bihar’s youth, the grand alliance aims to channel anti-incumbency sentiment and the aspirations of a younger demographic seeking change.
What’s at Stake in Phase 1?
The 121 seats polling today span diverse regions, each with its own unique set of local issues and complex caste arithmetic. While urban voters may prioritize infrastructure and economic growth, rural concerns like agricultural support (MSP), flood relief, and access to basic amenities are expected to be key drivers. The performance of both alliances in this phase will be a strong indicator of the prevailing political winds in the state.
Live Updates
- 9:00 AM: Polling begins across all 121 constituencies. Long queues reported in several districts, including Gaya, Rohtas, and Bhagalpur.
- 9:30 AM: Minor EVM glitches reported in a few booths, which were quickly resolved by Election Commission officials.
- 10:00 AM: Approximately 10% voter turnout recorded in the first two hours of polling.
This section will be updated with the latest information throughout the day.
Security and EC Arrangements
To ensure a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process, substantial security measures have been implemented. A heavy deployment of central and state police forces is visible at all polling stations. The Election Commission of India has made extensive arrangements to facilitate a smooth voting experience, ensuring adherence to all established protocols. All eyes are now on the final voter turnout, which will offer the first clues as to whether Bihar has voted for continuity or for change.
