Patna: The 2025 Assembly elections in Bihar have achieved remarkable voter turnout across all 243 constituencies. The Election Commission has described the two-phase polling as a “model of transparency and public trust,” highlighting the unprecedented enthusiasm among voters and the peaceful execution of the electoral process. Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Singh Gunjiyal revealed in a press conference that the final turnout reached 66.9%, an increase of nearly 9.6 percentage points compared to the last assembly election. The final phase recorded a turnout of 68.79%, with women voters surpassing men in many districts.
Gunjiyal remarked, “This reflects growing awareness and a deepening faith in democracy.” He mentioned that data from approximately 2,000 booths is still being gathered, indicating that the final figure may rise. Notably, over 3.7 crore voters participated in the second phase at 45,399 polling stations, many of which were monitored through live webcasting for the first time. A Peaceful Election, a Transparent System Officials reported that the election was largely free from major violence, which is uncommon in Bihar’s political landscape. Advanced GPS tracking of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) facilitated real-time monitoring and helped prevent delays or tampering attempts.
The commission also noted the seizure of contraband valued at ₹127 crore, including alcohol and drugs, marking the state’s most stringent enforcement campaign to date. While 35 cases of poll boycotts were reported, officials observed overwhelming participation in many areas, including several Maoist-affected districts such as Jamui, Gaya, and Rohtas, where citizens voted freely for the first time in two decades. ADG Headquarters Kundan Krishnan noted, “Even the wives of former extremists came out to vote,” attributing this to the strong deployment of special forces and real-time surveillance. Democracy’s Triumph Gunjiyal characterized the polling as a “festival of democracy” where women and first-time voters stood in long lines.
He stated, “This election has set a new benchmark in discipline, transparency, and participation,” expressing gratitude to voters, poll staff, and security forces. Officials believe that Bihar’s 2025 elections could serve as a model for other states, showcasing effective logistics, digital transparency, and widespread civic engagement.