Bihar Election Phase 1 Sees Over 60% Voter Turnout, Surpassing 2020 Figures

Patna | November 6, 2025 The first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections has seen a strong voter response, with over 60.13% of eligible voters turning up at polling booths till 5 PM. This marks a rise of 4.45% compared to the 2020 first-phase turnout and shows a more engaged electorate this time around. While the enthusiasm among voters is clear, the numbers also come after a controversial voter list revision that removed around 47 lakh names. The revision, which reduced Bihar’s voter base from 7.89 crore to 7.42 crore, has sparked debate — the opposition Mahagathbandhan claims it disproportionately affected poorer and marginalized communities. Despite this, the higher turnout has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum. Traditionally, high voting percentages in Bihar have been seen as a sign of anti-incumbency — a possible warning for the ruling BJP-JDU alliance, which is facing strong competition from the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan. Tejashwi Yadav, the RJD leader and chief ministerial candidate, is contesting from his family bastion Raghopur, where voting was recorded at an impressive 64%, higher than the last election. Other key constituencies also reported solid participation — Tarapur saw 58.3%, Alinagar reported 58%, and Mokama stood at 62.1%, despite controversies surrounding candidates. However, experts caution that a high turnout doesn’t always translate into a change of power. In states like Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, for instance, the BJP retained control despite rising voter participation in past elections. This year’s Bihar polls are being held in two phases, covering all 243 Assembly seats. Today’s phase covered 121 constituencies, while the remaining 122 will vote on November 11, with results to be announced on November 14. As counting day approaches, both alliances — the BJP-JDU and the Mahagathbandhan — are watching the numbers closely. The opposition is optimistic that the strong turnout signals public desire for change, while the ruling side is confident its governance record will prevail. One thing is certain — Bihar’s voters have spoken loudly in the first phase, and all eyes are now on what their message will mean when the final results arrive next week. Bihar Election Phase 1 Sees Over 60% Voter Turnout, Surpassing 2020 Figures Bihar came alive today as voters stepped out in huge numbers for the first phase of the 2025 Assembly elections, recording an impressive 60% turnout — higher than the last polls in 2020. The energy at polling booths across the state tells a story of renewed hope, frustration, and determination. Whether it’s a vote for change or confidence in the old guard, one thing is clear — Bihar’s people are making their voices count. The higher turnout, despite the removal of over 47 lakh names from the voter list, shows that citizens are refusing to sit this one out. From Patna’s crowded streets to rural booths in Raghopur and Mokama, every vote feels like a statement. Political experts say the rise in turnout could hint at anti-incumbency, but the real verdict will only unfold when results are declared on November 14. Until then, the state waits, talks, and hopes — because elections here aren’t just about numbers; they’re about identity, resilience, and belief in a better tomorrow.