Brisk polling is underway in the eastern Indian state of Bihar, where more than 74 million voters are eligible to choose their next government. The state is voting for 243 assembly seats across a two-phase election that is being closely observed as a key political test ahead of multiple important state and national polls.
The first phase of voting on Thursday saw long queues outside polling booths in several districts, reflecting strong public participation. The second and final phase will take place on 11 November, with counting of votes scheduled for 14 November.
This election comes amid controversy over a revised electoral roll, which opposition parties claim could exclude legitimate voters and favor Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, both the BJP and the Election Commission of India have denied the allegations, insisting that the electoral process is fair and transparent.
The outcome of the Bihar election is expected to influence the political momentum heading into future state elections and could shape national political strategies in the coming months. With both alliances campaigning aggressively and regional parties playing key roles, the race is highly competitive and closely watched across the country.
