Bihar: Voting is in progress for the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, marking the beginning of a closely watched electoral contest across the state. This phase covers 121 assembly constituencies spread over 18 districts, where 3.75 crore voters are deciding the fate of 1,314 candidates.
Polling is being held in districts including Patna, Darbhanga, Madhepura, Saharsa, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Vaishali, Samastipur, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Sheikhpura, Nalanda, Bokaro, and Bhojpur. Election officials have reported a steady voter turnout since polling began, with elaborate security arrangements in place to ensure smooth and peaceful voting.
Among the high-profile constituencies, Raghopur features RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav defending his seat, while in Mahua, his brother Tej Pratap Yadav is contesting under a new political outfit. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is seeking re-election from Tarapur, while in Alinagar, singer Maithili Thakur is contesting on a BJP ticket. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha is also in the fray from Lakhisarai.
Mokama remains one of the most closely watched constituencies, with JDU strongman Anant Singh contesting despite being under arrest in connection with the murder of his political rival Dular Chand Yadav. Another key seat, Raghunathpur, has RJD candidate Osama Shah, son of the late gangster-turned-politician Md Shahabuddin, contesting in a high-stakes battle expected to draw intense voter interest.
The second and final phase of polling will be held on November 11, covering the remaining 122 constituencies. Counting for both phases is scheduled for November 14. With major political parties on high alert and voter mobilisation efforts in full swing, the Bihar elections are set to determine the state’s political landscape for the coming term.
