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Record Turnout In First Phase Of Bihar Elections Signals Major Shift

Record Turnout In First Phase Of Bihar Elections Signals Major Shift

IN SHORTThe first phase of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections recorded a turnout of around 64.66 per cent across 121 constituencies, marking the highest ever in the state’s history. The surge reflects heightened voter engagement at a time when alliances and mood-shifts dominate political calculations. While both the National Democratic Alliance and Mahagathbandhan claim advantage, analysts say the figure alone does not guarantee outcomes but sets a dynamic tone for the next phase.

TL;DR

  • The first phase saw polling in 121 seats across 18 districts with turnout surpassing previous records.
  • Women’s participation and rural voter mobilization played a key role in the advance.
  • Previously, higher turnout often coincided with anti-incumbency waves, but this time context remains opaque.
  • Both major alliances interpreted the turnout as favouring them while awaiting results.
  • Clean-up of electoral rolls and intensive campaigning influenced fresh voter interest.
  • The result of phase one will shape strategy for the remaining 122 seats in phase two.
  • Political observers highlight turnout as a strong signal of change, albeit not a decisive verdict.