Bihar Elections: CEC Reviews Readiness, Parties Suggest Timing and Phasing

A comprehensive review of the Bihar Assembly Elections’ preparedness was conducted by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accompanied by Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, in Patna. The Election Commission team spent two days in the state for this purpose. Discussions were held with representatives of recognized national and state political parties including the Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, and Bharatiya Janata Party. The objective was to gather suggestions and feedback. CEC Kumar highlighted the pivotal role of political parties in upholding democracy, urging them to participate fully in all electoral phases. The Commission also encouraged a festive spirit among voters during the elections. Political parties thanked the election body for its successful initiatives, and expressed faith in the electoral system. They suggested holding elections immediately after the Chhath festival and completing them in the fewest possible phases. The Commission highlighted actions such as limiting the number of voters per polling station. Following interactions with political parties, the Commission reviewed various aspects with officials. The Commission directed officials to act with impartiality and address party grievances promptly, including monitoring social media for fake news and responding with legal action if necessary. The Election Commission has yet to announce the election dates. The upcoming election in Bihar is expected to be a direct contest between the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan. In the Bihar Assembly, the NDA has 131 seats and the Mahagathbandhan has 111 seats.