Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar announced that the Bihar Assembly elections will unfold in two phases on November 6 and 11, with the counting of votes scheduled for November 14. The entire electoral process will conclude by November 16, ensuring timely completion of the election cycle.
Addressing the media at a press conference, Kumar termed the upcoming Bihar polls as the “mother of all elections”. He emphasized the significance of transparency and a seamless election process across all constituencies, indicating the high stakes involved in this electoral exercise.
In the first phase on November 6, voters will cast their ballots in 121 Assembly constituencies. The second phase will see elections in 122 constituencies on November 11. This bifurcation aims to manage the electoral logistics more effectively and ensure security across the polling booths.
“It is mandatory to complete counting of postal ballots before the last two rounds of counting of votes,” stated Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. This underscores the Commission’s commitment to meticulously handling the counting process to uphold electoral integrity.
The election timeline outlines crucial dates for candidates. For the first phase, the last date for filing nominations is October 17, followed by scrutiny on October 18. Candidates must withdraw their nominations by October 20. In the second phase, nominations will close on October 20, with scrutiny on October 21 and withdrawal by October 23.
The current term of the Bihar Legislative Assembly ends on November 22, making the efficiency of this election process essential. Bihar features a total of 243 Assembly constituencies, with two reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST) and 38 reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC).
As political parties gear up for the polls, the focus will remain on ensuring free and fair elections amidst the backdrop of increased COVID-19 safety protocols. The Election Commission aims to utilize technology to make the voting and counting processes more accessible and transparent.
The electorate in Bihar, with its diverse demographic, plays a crucial role in the state’s governance. Voter mobilization and engagement will be pivotal as various parties build their campaign strategies. This election not only influences local governance but sets the tone for regional politics ahead of the 2024 general elections.
With the announcement made public, political attention will intensify, and parties will strategize to consolidate voter bases. Observers predict a competitive landscape, with key issues likely to revolve around development, social justice, and public welfare, making it imperative for candidates to resonate with the electorate’s concerns.
