Patna: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar in a significant announcement on Sunday declared that the Bihar Assembly elections will be concluded before November 22, 2025. This statement was made at a press conference in Patna marking the conclusion of the Election Commission’s two-day visit to the state to review poll preparedness. The term of the current Vidhan Sabha is set to end on this date.
The full commission comprising CEC Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, conducted a comprehensive review of the state’s election machinery. During their visit the commission held crucial meetings with representatives of various recognised national and state-level political parties. Furthermore, they assessed the preparations with all District Magistrates Superintendents of Police, and other senior administrative officials to ensure a smooth electoral process.
The CEC revealed that the political parties had put forward a suggestion to schedule the elections after the ‘Chhath Mahaparv’ to facilitate maximum voter turnout. A request was also made to conduct the polling in a minimum number of phases.
In a move to enhance the voting experience and transparency, the Commission has announced several new initiatives for the upcoming polls.
For the first time coloured photographs of the candidates will be displayed on the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) making it easier for voters to identify their chosen candidate.
To manage crowds and ensure voter convenience, a cap of 1200 voters per polling station will be implemented. In a major step towards transparency 100% webcasting from all polling stations will be ensured. Additionally a special counter will be set up for voters to deposit their mobile phones before entering the polling booth.
The final electoral roll for Bihar has been published with a total of 7.42 crore registered voters. The Chief Election Commissioner gave a firm assurance that the commission is fully prepared to conduct the elections in a free, fair and peaceful manner. The detailed schedule for the elections is expected to be announced soon.
