Bihar has recorded its highest-ever voter turnout in history during the first phase of the 2025 Assembly elections. According to provisional data shared by the Election Commission, 64.66% of eligible voters cast their votes across the 121 constituencies that went to polls on Tuesday. This turnout is notable because it surpasses the previous Assembly election record of 62.57% set in 2000.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar expressed gratitude to voters and polling personnel for participating in such large numbers. The turnout is especially significant as it comes after a special revision of the state’s voter list, which resulted in 47 lakh names being removed, reducing the total number of registered voters from 7.89 crore to 7.42 crore. Opposition parties had criticized this exercise, calling it an attempt to remove voters who typically support them.
High voter turnout often sparks speculation about anti-incumbency, but political trends show that this connection is not always consistent. Bihar’s recent electoral history highlights this. In 2010, when Nitish Kumar allied with the BJP, the NDA won a clear mandate despite a moderate turnout of 52.73%. In 2015, when Nitish switched sides and joined hands with Lalu Prasad Yadav, turnout increased and the alliance won again. Then in 2020, after another political realignment, Nitish returned to the BJP-led camp, and the coalition retained power, though the JDU’s strength weakened.
The strong turnout in Phase 1 has energized the opposition Mahagathbandhan, led by Tejashwi Yadav, who is contesting again from Raghopur, a seat long held by his family. Several high-profile battles also took place in constituencies like Tarapur, Alinagar, and Mokama, drawing heavy public attention.
However, political experts caution that high turnout does not automatically signal a change in power. States like Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh have seen increased voter participation without any shift in ruling parties.
With 122 seats still to vote in Phase 2 on November 11, the final outcome will only become clear on November 14, when results are announced. Until then, Bihar waits — with curiosity, anticipation, and renewed political energy.
