Bihar Elections 2025: From voting timings to restrictions imposed, a complete guide to the elections

Bihar is gearing up for a high-stakes political battle with assembly elections this November deciding the fate of its 243 constituencies.

The Election Commission (EC) has announced a two-phase polling schedule: the first on November 6 for 121 seats and the second on November 11 for 122 seats. Counting of votes will take place on November 14.

Voting system and facilities

The Election Commission has implemented several measures to facilitate voting, especially for the elderly, persons with disabilities (PWD) and first-time voters. Key points include:

1. Every voter will receive a Voter Information Slip (VIS) at least five days before voting. This will include information about polling place, day and time.
2. The Election Commission has also ordered that Braille-enabled voter information slips be distributed to visually impaired people to facilitate their active participation and participation in the electoral process.
3. Polling places with multiple booths should have separate entry and exit points to prevent crowding and chaos.
4. Persons with disabilities and senior citizens will get ‘ensured minimum facilities’ at each polling station, such as drinking water, a waiting shed, a toilet with water, adequate lighting, a regular polling booth, proper signage, etc.
5. There will be a mobile phone deposit point outside polling stations; The phone should be switched off and not used within a radius of 100 meters of the booth.
6. The Election Commission has set a limit of 1,200 voters per booth to reduce crowding.

Restrictions and Rules

Several limitations are in place to provide a free environment and fair political playing field:

• According to the Model Code of Conduct, use of official machinery, expenditure, campaign behavior and government statements are all subject to restrictions.
• The Election Commission has made it clear that threats, false information and electoral fraud will not be tolerated.
• In order to maintain law and order in the districts where voting takes place, schools and other educational facilities may be ordered to remain closed on election days.
• Vehicles carrying more than a certain number of people are not allowed to campaign or drive close to nomination or polling places.

What should voters keep in mind?

• Make sure your name appears in the final roll. The purpose of releasing the final rolls and SIR activity is to clean the rolls and welcome new young voters.
• Bring with you an authorized picture ID proof, such as an EPIC card, an Aadhaar photo ID, a driving license, etc., for identity verification at the booth.
• Make sure you arrive at your polling place on time. The voting rules and support are designed to ensure a seamless process.
• Deposit facilities will be provided outside the polling station, so avoid carrying cell phones inside.
• Pay attention to the dos and don’ts posted at the booths and maintain restrictions on campaigning close to polling places.