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Patna, Nov 14 (IANS) The political contest for the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections reached its decisive phase on Friday as the counting of votes, which began at 8 am across all polling stations in the state, is steadily and peacefully progressing towards the result.
With tight security arrangements, heavy deployment of personnel and strict Election Commission (EC) protocols, this day will decide who will rule Bihar for the next five years.
The day began with the counting of postal ballots, which began at 8 am, followed by the electronic voting machines (EVMs) opening half an hour later.
According to Election Commission officials, the complete picture is expected to be clear by afternoon.
The results of all 243 assembly constituencies will be declared in phases to ensure a smooth and disruption-free process.
Three-tier security arrangements have been established at 46 counting centers across Bihar.
Central paramilitary forces guard the inner ring, Bihar Military Police (BMP) manages the middle ring, and district police handle security outside the centres. Mobile phones, calculators, cameras and all electronic devices have been banned from being taken into the counting hall. Each counting counter is monitored by micro observers, counting supervisors and assistants.
15 tables have been arranged inside each counting hall – 14 for counting of EVMs and one for special purposes under the assistant returning officer. A separate table has also been set up specifically for postal ballots.
The Commission has said that the entire process will be conducted in a fair, transparent and fear-free environment.
A total of 243 counting observers have been deployed to monitor the process, one for each constituency.
The district administration has implemented extensive measures for crowd management and safety.
With thousands of election officials, candidates, delegates and security personnel present at the centres, officials are keeping a close eye on traffic control, power supply, fire fighting system, medical aid and sanitation.
Special barricades have been installed to prevent crowding and avoid any untoward incident. Security has also been tightened around the residence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in Patna.
Additional BMP-1 Gorkha battalions have been deployed as a precautionary measure. Surveillance has been increased around the complex and more personnel have been deployed to maintain tight security cover.
The Election Commission confirmed that all candidates had been formally informed in advance of the date, time and place of counting, in accordance with the 1961 election rules.
Officials have been directed to maintain complete integrity and ensure that there is no malpractice or irregularity.
As the process continues, initial trends from various centers are expected to emerge soon.
Political parties and supporters are closely watching these early signs, which often determine the outcome.
In an environment of tight security and vigilance, this day is important for the political future of Bihar. By the evening the mandate of the people will become clear, which will reveal who they have chosen to represent them.
–IANS
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