The Election Commission is expected to announce the schedule for the Bihar legislative assembly polls on Monday, according to news agency PTI. With the much-anticipated Bihar elections slated for later this year, the poll authority has convened a press conference at 4 pm. This conference is likely to reveal the dates and a detailed schedule for the Bihar assembly elections.
The 243-member state assembly’s term ends on November 22, making it probable that the elections will be held around late November or early December. Political parties have reportedly urged the Election Commission (EC) to conduct the polls immediately after the Chhath festival, which is celebrated at the end of October. This suggestion aims to ensure greater voter participation, as many residents employed outside the state return home for the festivities.
Earlier, on October 3, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar described election observers as the “beacons of democracy,” emphasizing their vital role in ensuring free and fair elections across the country. In preparation for the Bihar elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) held a detailed briefing for general, police, and expenditure observers. These officials will serve as Central Observers for the upcoming Bihar Legislative Assembly Elections 2025, as well as for bye-elections in certain states.
During the meeting, the Chief Election Commissioner stressed the importance of observers, stating, “As the Commission’s eyes and ears, you must familiarize yourselves with all election laws, rules, and guidelines, provide direct field inputs, and ensure strict and impartial compliance,” as reported by PTI.
Furthermore, on September 30, the ECI published the final electoral roll for the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). The total number of electors in the final list stands at 7.42 crore, down from 7.89 crore registered on June 24. According to the commission, 65 lakh voters were deleted from the draft list, including 3.66 lakh ineligible electors.
The 2020 assembly polls in Bihar were conducted in three phases amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
(With inputs from PTI)
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