Bhagalpur: Demonstrating the resilience of India’s voters, residents in the Bihpur constituency of Bhagalpur district traversed rivers and waterlogged roads to cast their votes in the second phase of the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections. In the remote Diara and Atgama regions, locals utilized boats to cross the Sharda River at dawn, as roads remained submerged and muddy. For many, reaching the Madhya Vidyalaya Chauhadi polling station required not only boat rides but also a two-kilometre walk across another river. Despite these physical obstacles, their determination to participate in the democratic process was clear. “Boats are our only means to vote in every election, yet our courage remains steadfast,” a local voter remarked. “This is our village’s reality during elections.
We understand the importance of voting.” Voters of all ages, including the elderly, women, and children, were seen boarding overcrowded boats, their expressions a blend of responsibility and determination. Approximately 940 voters from villages such as Majar, Pachisa, Barar, Koni, and Medai, all situated across the river, undertook this challenging journey to cast their ballots. The local administration arranged for boats and stationed security personnel along the routes. Block officials and the Block Development Officer oversaw the preparations to ensure every voter could safely reach the polling station. On Tuesday, the Diara region of Bihpur, often cut off by rivers and flooded land, emerged as a powerful symbol of democratic commitment.
The sight of voters facing adverse conditions to engage in the electoral process highlights the enduring belief of Bihar’s rural communities in the significance of their vote.