Bihar Election Phase 1 voting highlights: Polling concludes, ECI to update final turnout soon

VIP chief and Mahagathbandhan's Deputy CM face Mukesh Sahani says, "There is a wave of change in Bihar. There is bumper voting happening. I hope that there will be a change in Bihar. A Mahagathbandhan government will be formed."

On Bihar DY CM Vijay Sinha, he says, "They are in power in the country. They're in power in the state, so they should investigate. They're suffering the consequences of the kind of Bihar they've created. People are driving them out, which means that a Grand Alliance government is being formed..."

https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1986408724366565796

VIP chief and Mahagathbandhan's Deputy CM face Mukesh Sahani says, "There is a wave of change in Bihar. There is bumper voting happening. I hope that there will be a change in Bihar. A Mahagathbandhan government will be formed."

On Bihar DY CM Vijay Sinha, he says, "They are in power in the country. They're in power in the state, so they should investigate. They're suffering the consequences of the kind of Bihar they've created. People are driving them out, which means that a Grand Alliance government is being formed..."

https://.com/ANI/status/1986408724366565796

VIP chief and Mahagathbandhan's Deputy CM face Mukesh Sahani says, "There is a wave of change in Bihar. There is bumper voting happening. I hope that there will be a change in Bihar. A Mahagathbandhan government will be formed."

On Bihar DY CM Vijay Sinha, he says, "They are in power in the country. They're in power in the state, so they should investigate. They're suffering the consequences of the kind of Bihar they've created. People are driving them out, which means that a Grand Alliance government is being formed..."

https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1986408724366565796

60.13% approximate voter turnout recorded in the first phase of biharelection2025, till 5 pm.

Congress leader Akhilesh Prasad Singh says, "The mahagathbandhan will form the government with a two-thirds majority. I have been saying all along that Bihar is going to deliver a shocking result, and from the kind of news coming in today, it is clear that a change in power is taking place..."

On the attack on Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, he says, "One should not go to polling stations, especially a person who has become obscure."

53.77 per cent turnout recorded till 3 pm

According to the latest Election Commission of India data, approximately 53.77 per cent of voter turnout has been recorded till 3 pm in the first phase of Bihar Assembly Elections 2025.

When it comes to taking the spotlight, national president of the Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD), Tej Pratap Yadav, does not shy away. Be it trailblazing through his family’s dynastic politics or forming his own party, Tej Pratap is always ready to prove his mettle.

As voting for the first phase of the Bihar election continues, he exuded confidence in becoming the next Chief Minister of the Hindi heartland. He said that if given the opportunity, he would not shy away from taking up the post, but that the decision rests with the public.

He exhorted the citizens of Bihar to exercise their right to vote. “The people of Bihar must cast their votes. Every vote is crucial. The blessings of parents hold a special place, and the blessings of the public have their own significance,” he told media outside a polling booth in Patna.

Citing Lalu Prasad Yadav’s legacy, Tej Pratap said his father had once remarked that if he got the chance to become Prime Minister, he would definitely accept it. “Just as my father said, ‘If I got the chance to become PM, why would I give it up?’ I would say the same. If I get the chance to become Chief Minister, why would I give it up? Whether I become CM or not will be decided only on November 14, but I am not so greedy that my sole desire is to occupy the chair,” Tej Pratap told the media.

When it comes to taking the spotlight, national president of the Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD), Tej Pratap Yadav, does not shy away. Be it trailblazing through his family’s dynastic politics or forming his own party, Tej Pratap is always ready to prove his mettle.

As voting for the first phase of the Bihar election continues, he exuded confidence in becoming the next Chief Minister of the Hindi heartland. He said that if given the opportunity, he would not shy away from taking up the post, but that the decision rests with the public.

He exhorted the citizens of Bihar to exercise their right to vote. “The people of Bihar must cast their votes. Every vote is crucial. The blessings of parents hold a special place, and the blessings of the public have their own significance,” he told media outside a polling booth in Patna.

Citing Lalu Prasad Yadav’s legacy, Tej Pratap said his father had once remarked that if he got the chance to become Prime Minister, he would definitely accept it. “Just as my father said, ‘If I got the chance to become PM, why would I give it up?’ I would say the same. If I get the chance to become Chief Minister, why would I give it up? Whether I become CM or not will be decided only on November 14, but I am not so greedy that my sole desire is to occupy the chair,” Tej Pratap told the media.

Bundle of lies, false promises: UP CM Yogi Adityanath slams Congress and RJD

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "This grand alliance, in the form of Congress and RJD, has come among you carrying a bundle of lies, to make false promises...We had said that we would seize the properties of mafias, and in Uttar Pradesh, we have already done so."

Bundle of lies, false promises: UP CM Yogi Adityanath slams Congress and RJD

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "This grand alliance, in the form of Congress and RJD, has come among you carrying a bundle of lies, to make false promises...We had said that we would seize the properties of mafias, and in Uttar Pradesh, we have already done so."

Until Bihar becomes a developed Bihar, the dream of a developed India cannot be realised either: Rajnath

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "...We want to bring about such a change in the system that the name of corruption is forever eradicated from the politics of Hindustan...Bihar has now accelerated its steps towards becoming a developed Bihar, and everyone acknowledges this...Prime Minister Modi has said that by 2047, we will make India a developed India, and until Bihar becomes a developed Bihar, the dream of a developed India cannot be realised either..."

As voting for phase 1 of the Bihar assembly election continues, a 53.77% approximate voter turnout has been recorded till 3 pm.

In the first phase of the Bihar Assembly Elections, voting up to 3 pm was recorded at a total of 53.77% across the 121 assembly seats. Among these, Begusarai registered the highest turnout at 59.82%, while Patna recorded the lowest at 48.69 %.

As voting for phase 1 of the Bihar assembly election continues, a 53.77% approximate voter turnout has been recorded till 3 pm.

In the first phase of the Bihar Assembly Elections, voting up to 3 pm was recorded at a total of 53.77% across the 121 assembly seats. Among these, Begusarai registered the highest turnout at 59.82%, while Patna recorded the lowest at 48.69 %.

Nitish Kumar 'remotely controlled': LoP Rahul Gandhi slams NDA

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said Bihar needs a new path of progress, calling for world-class universities, hospitals, and industries to be set up in the state. Criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, he alleged that Nitish is being “remotely controlled” by Modi and that the government is effectively being run by bureaucrats from Bihar and Delhi, along with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

HM Amit Shah exhorts youth to come out in large numbers to vote

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and union Home Minister Amit Shah today urged the people of Bihar, especially the youth, to come out in large numbers to vote in the first phase of the state Assembly elections, saying that every vote is crucial to building a “developed and self-reliant Bihar” and to preventing the “return of jungle raj.”

As polling continued across 121 constituencies in 18 districts, Shah took to his social media to make an appeal to voters. Taking aim at the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Shah said the people of Bihar must ensure that the state does not revert to an era “synonymous with lawlessness and corruption.”

“Teach a lesson in this election to those who compromise the country’s security by protecting infiltrators and Naxalites,” Shah added, urging voters to remain vigilant while casting their ballots.

RJD candidate and singer-actor Khesari Lal Yadav expresses happiness over high voter turnout in Chapra

RJD candidate and singer-actor Khesari Lal Yadav expressed happiness over the high voter turnout in Chapra during the Bihar Election 2025, saying people are voting for the future of their children and hoping for better education and employment opportunities. Addressing questions about his Mumbai residence, he said it was built through hard work and added, “If this is what God wills, no problem — it’s a palace of dreams and will be rebuilt.”

Famous educator Khan Sir casts his vote at booth number 241 in Kumhrar constituency

HM Amit Shah exhorts youth to come out in large numbers to vote

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and union Home Minister Amit Shah today urged the people of Bihar, especially the youth, to come out in large numbers to vote in the first phase of the state Assembly elections, saying that every vote is crucial to building a “developed and self-reliant Bihar” and to preventing the “return of jungle raj.”

As polling continued across 121 constituencies in 18 districts, Shah took to his social media to make an appeal to voters. Taking aim at the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Shah said the people of Bihar must ensure that the state does not revert to an era “synonymous with lawlessness and corruption.”

“Teach a lesson in this election to those who compromise the country’s security by protecting infiltrators and Naxalites,” Shah added, urging voters to remain vigilant while casting their ballots.

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra takes dig at NDA

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra recalled a childhood incident in Amethi, saying a woman had once scolded her father, then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, for not fulfilling a promise to install a water tap. She said the woman spoke fearlessly — unlike today, when people are afraid to question the government. Priyanka said the country’s politics was built on Mahatma Gandhi’s foundation, where “the people are supreme.”

JJD President and Mahua candidate Tej Pratap Yadav exudes confidence of winning Bihar polls

Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD) national president and Mahua candidate Tej Pratap Yadav visited several polling booths in his constituency on Thursday as voting took place across 121 seats in the first phase of the Bihar elections.

Expressing confidence in his victory, Yadav said he has the blessings of his parents and the support of the people. Speaking to ANI, he stated, “I am fully confident. I have the blessings of my parents and the public.”

Tej Pratap Yadav, who was expelled from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) earlier this year, is contesting the election under his new party, the Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD).

At an election rally in Ramnagar, Bettiah, Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused Rahul Gandhi of supporting “Bangladeshi infiltrators” staying on voter lists and asked whether such people should decide who becomes chief minister.

Shah said the BJP will work to remove infiltrators from the country, referencing Rahul Gandhi’s alleged “Ghuspetiya Bachchao Yatra.”

RJD supporters attack car of Deputy CM and BJP candidate Vijay Kumar Sinha in Lakhisarai

Tension flared in Lakhisarai as RJD supporters surrounded the car of Deputy CM and BJP candidate Vijay Kumar Sinha, shouting “Murdabad” slogans and allegedly hurling slippers. The mob reportedly tried to block his movement, while police personnel present at the spot intervened to control the situation.

watch | biharelection2025 | RJD supporters surround Deputy CM and BJP candidate from Lakhisarai constituency, Vijay Kumar Sinha's car, hurl slippers and chant "Murdabad", forbidding him from going ahead. Police personnel present here.

Visuals from Lakhisarai. pic.twitter.com/qthw0QWL7G

— ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2025

Meanwhile, Sinha came out of his car and gave a fiery byte to the media regarding the attack on him. Sinha said, "These are the goons of RJD. Satta mein aa rahi hai NDA isliye inke chhati pe bulldozer chalega. The goons are not letting me visit the village. Vijay Sinha is going to win...They turned away my polling agent and did not let him vote...Look at their hooliganism...This is 404 and 405 booth numbers of Khoriari village."

RJD supporters attack car of Deputy CM and BJP candidate Vijay Kumar Sinha in Lakhisarai

Tension flared in Lakhisarai as RJD supporters surrounded the car of Deputy CM and BJP candidate Vijay Kumar Sinha, shouting “Murdabad” slogans and allegedly hurling slippers. The mob reportedly tried to block his movement, while police personnel present at the spot intervened to control the situation.

RJD supporters attack car of Deputy CM and BJP candidate Vijay Kumar Sinha in Lakhisarai

Tension flared in Lakhisarai as RJD supporters surrounded the car of Deputy CM and BJP candidate Vijay Kumar Sinha, shouting “Murdabad” slogans and allegedly hurling slippers. The mob reportedly tried to block his movement, while police personnel present at the spot intervened to control the situation.

watch | biharelection2025 | RJD supporters surround Deputy CM and BJP candidate from Lakhisarai constituency, Vijay Kumar Sinha's car, hurl slippers and chant "Murdabad", forbidding him from going ahead. Police personnel present here.

Visuals from Lakhisarai. pic.twitter.com/qthw0QWL7G

— ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2025

Meanwhile, Sinha came out of his car and gave a fiery byte to the media regarding the attack on him. Sinha said, "These are the goons of RJD. Satta mein aa rahi hai NDA isliye inke chhati pe bulldozer chalega. The goons are not letting me visit the village. Vijay Sinha is going to win...They turned away my polling agent and did not let him vote...Look at their hooliganism...This is 404 and 405 booth numbers of Khoriari village."

Faces of burqa-clad women verified before voting

While voting for Bihar elections, a burqa-clad woman voter said, " My identity was checked and I cast my vote. I agree with this practice as it can prevent vote chori." Another voter says, "My face was checked to verify my identity. It is right to do so."

Faces of burqa-clad women verified before voting

While voting for Bihar elections, a burqa-clad woman voter said, " My identity was checked and I cast my vote. I agree with this practice as it can prevent vote chori." Another voter says, "My face was checked to verify my identity. It is right to do so."

'katta, katuta, krurta, kushasan, kusanskar, and corruption': PM Modi targets RJD

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday targeted the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), describing its 15-year rule in Bihar as a time of “katta, katuta, krurta, kushasan, kusanskar, and corruption.”

Speaking at a rally in Araria, Modi said Bihar was once known as a land of social justice, but that image was damaged during the RJD’s rule in the 1990s.

“Your grandparents’ one vote made Bihar a land of social justice. But in the 90s, jungle raj took over — marked by violence, cruelty, and corruption. That was Bihar’s misfortune, and your parents’ dreams were crushed,” he said.

The Prime Minister praised the current Nitish Kumar-led government, saying it has pulled Bihar out of the jungle raj phase. He added that since 2014, the pace of development in the state has doubled, leading to the establishment of IITs, IIMs, NLUs, and AIIMS across Bihar.

Congress MP Imran Masood alleged irregularities in the voter list during the first phase of the Bihar Election 2025, claiming that many voters were forced to return from polling stations. He said the situation reflects what Rahul Gandhi highlighted earlier, accusing authorities of attempting to deprive people of their right to vote through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.

Bihar recorded a voter turnout of 27.65 per cent in the first four hours of the first phase of assembly elections, according to the data of the Election Commission of India.

The Begusarai district recorded the highest turnout of 30.37 per cent, while Patna, the capital of the state, recorded a slow turnout of 23.71 per cent till 11 am. Lakhisarai, which earlier recorded a sluggish turnout at 9 am, has now recorded a turnout of 30.32 per cent till 11 am.

Gopalganj district has recorded a voter turnout of 30.04 per cent, followed by 28.02 per cent in Buxar, 26.76 per cent in Bhojpur, 26.07 per cent in Darbhanga, 28.96 per cent in Khagaria, 28.46 per cent in Madhepura, 26.68 per cent in Munger, 29.66 per cent in Muzaffarpur, 26.86 per cent in Nalanda, 29.68 per cent in Saharsa, 27.92 per cent in Samastipur, 28.52 per cent in Saran, 26.04 per cent in Sheikhpura, 27.09 per cent in Siwan and 28.67 per cent in Vaishali - all as of 11 am.

In Munger district, voting is taking place for the first time after 20 years in the Naxal-affected area of Bhimband. Locals expressed their joy after getting a chance to vote after 20 years.

Singer and BJP candidate Maithili Thakur visited polling booths in her Alinagar constituency today. She checked the arrangements and ensured that everything was in order for smooth voting.

Osama Shahab, the RJD candidate from Raghunathpur constituency, cast his vote today at a polling booth in Pratappur village. Osama is the son of the late Mohammad Shahabuddin, a former politician and controversial figure from Bihar who had served as both an MLA and MP from the Siwan constituency.

Mohammad Shahabuddin, who passed away in 2021, had a criminal past and was convicted in multiple cases, including the kidnapping and disappearance of activist Chote Lal Gupta, for which he was serving a life sentence. He was also accused in the killings of several Communist Party activists.

For the first time in 20 years, villagers in the Naxal-affected area of Bhimbandh in Munger district got the chance to vote in the Bihar Assembly elections. The polling booth set up in the area allowed both young and old to participate.

A local villager expressed his happiness, saying that earlier, since 2005, the situation was not safe for voting. “Now there is no fear. Ever since the security camp was set up, we have been living peacefully,” he said.

He added that the ability to vote freely after two decades gives them a sense of empowerment. “We are very happy that a polling booth has been set up here. Everyone, young and old, can cast their vote without fear,” he said.

For the first time in 20 years, villagers in the Naxal-affected area of Bhimbandh in Munger district got the chance to vote in the Bihar Assembly elections. The polling booth set up in the area allowed both young and old to participate.

A local villager expressed his happiness, saying that earlier, since 2005, the situation was not safe for voting. “Now there is no fear. Ever since the security camp was set up, we have been living peacefully,” he said.

He added that the ability to vote freely after two decades gives them a sense of empowerment. “We are very happy that a polling booth has been set up here. Everyone, young and old, can cast their vote without fear,” he said.

Actor and BJP leader Dinesh Lal Yadav, popularly known as ‘Nirahua,’ urged people to participate actively in the Bihar Assembly elections. He called voting a “grand festival of democracy” and appealed to everyone to step out of their homes and cast their votes.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav held a campaign rally in Madhubani for the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections. He urged voters to support the Mahagathbandhan and bring change to the state.

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has left for Bihar to campaign ahead of the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections. He will be addressing rallies and interacting with voters to boost support for Mahagathbandhan.

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has left for Bihar to campaign ahead of the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections. He will be addressing rallies and interacting with voters to boost support for Mahagathbandhan.

In Patna, women performed Jhijhiya, the traditional folk dance of Mithila, near a polling booth to encourage people to vote.

The performance is part of a special initiative to raise awareness about the Bihar Assembly elections 2025, which are currently underway.

LJP (Ram Vilas) MP Arun Bharti urged the people of Bihar to vote for the NDA, saying that the state should continue its path of development and avoid corruption and “jungle raj” as it has in the past 19 years. He emphasised that the speed of Bihar’s progress should not be slowed down and appealed to voters to support the ruling alliance.

Arun Bharti also criticised Rahul Gandhi, claiming that he is trying to influence the youth and Gen Z against the government. He said the public and young voters are aware of Gandhi’s intentions and will not let them succeed.

Bharti added that if Gandhi’s allegations are true, he should go to court and file an affidavit instead of spreading narratives to mislead people.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar cast his vote in the first phase and showed his inked finger in Bakhtiyarpur, Patna. Voters are turning out early across the state as polling begins.

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta expressed confidence in the NDA ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections. She said the people of Bihar have seen 15 years of development and know that progress is possible under PM Modi, CM Nitish Kumar, and the NDA. She believes the NDA will win a full majority and get more votes and seats than before.

She added a warning to opponents, saying that those who think of themselves as leaders must remember that only those who win the hearts of the people as “Jan-nayak” will rule Bihar. Those involved in corruption or misleading the public, she said, will face punishment, while others who deceive people may end up living abroad.

In Siwan district, special e-rickshaws have been arranged at all polling stations to help elderly voters and persons with disabilities. Volunteers are also present at the booths to assist them while casting their votes.

Tej Pratap Yadav, national president of the Jan Shakti Janata Dal and candidate from Mahua, urged people to vote in large numbers. He said every single vote matters and added that while parents’ blessings are precious, the support and blessings of the people are equally important.

Around 13.13% voter turnout was recorded till 9 am in the first phase of Bihar Assembly Elections 2025. Polling began early this morning across multiple constituencies amid tight security arrangements.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the huge excitement among people during the Bihar Assembly elections shows that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will get a historic majority this time. He called the voting process a grand festival of democracy and praised the people of Bihar for their active participation.

PM Modi added that he is looking forward to meeting the people and receiving their blessings at two public rallies today; one in Forbesganj, Araria around 11:30 am, and another in Bhagalpur around 1:30 pm.

He said the energy and enthusiasm across Bihar reflect strong public support for the NDA government’s development agenda.

As the first phase of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 began, one of the most watched families in Bihar politics, the Yadavs, reached together to cast their votes in Patna. Former Chief Ministers Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi, along with their son and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, were joined by Tejashwi’s wife Rajshree Yadav and his sister Misa Bharti.

Tejashwi Yadav, who is leading the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) as its chief ministerial face, made an appeal to voters. “There will be a change on November 14. Bring change, form a new government,” he said.

His sister, RJD MP Misa Bharti, echoed the sentiment and urged citizens to vote wisely. “Everyone should cast their votes keeping in mind the future of their children,” she said.

Former Chief Minister Rabri Devi also appealed to the women and youth of Bihar to participate actively in the democratic process. “I appeal to all women and young voters to come out and cast their votes. The public will bring change,” she said after voting.

However, one family member was notably absent, Tej Pratap Yadav, Lalu’s elder son. Tej Pratap, who is contesting separately, did not join the family at the polling booth. When asked about his absence, Rabri Devi responded warmly, “My best wishes to both my sons. Tej Pratap is contesting on his own. I am their mother. Good luck to both of them.”

After voting, Misa Bharti expressed strong confidence in the Mahagathbandhan’s chances. “People are angry with the current government. The youth want jobs, not jumlas. This time, Tejashwi Yadav will become the Chief Minister. The Grand Alliance will form the government with a big majority,” she said.

She also accused the ruling alliance of using unfair means. “When a minister says to lock up the poor and stop them from voting, that’s not democracy, that’s Jungle Raj. The people have decided to end this,” she added.

As the first phase of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 began, one of the most watched families in Bihar politics, the Yadavs, reached together to cast their votes in Patna. Former Chief Ministers Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi, along with their son and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, were joined by Tejashwi’s wife Rajshree Yadav and his sister Misa Bharti.

Tejashwi Yadav, who is leading the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) as its chief ministerial face, made an appeal to voters. “There will be a change on November 14. Bring change, form a new government,” he said.

His sister, RJD MP Misa Bharti, echoed the sentiment and urged citizens to vote wisely. “Everyone should cast their votes keeping in mind the future of their children,” she said.

Former Chief Minister Rabri Devi also appealed to the women and youth of Bihar to participate actively in the democratic process. “I appeal to all women and young voters to come out and cast their votes. The public will bring change,” she said after voting.

However, one family member was notably absent, Tej Pratap Yadav, Lalu’s elder son. Tej Pratap, who is contesting separately, did not join the family at the polling booth. When asked about his absence, Rabri Devi responded warmly, “My best wishes to both my sons. Tej Pratap is contesting on his own. I am their mother. Good luck to both of them.”

After voting, Misa Bharti expressed strong confidence in the Mahagathbandhan’s chances. “People are angry with the current government. The youth want jobs, not jumlas. This time, Tejashwi Yadav will become the Chief Minister. The Grand Alliance will form the government with a big majority,” she said.

She also accused the ruling alliance of using unfair means. “When a minister says to lock up the poor and stop them from voting, that’s not democracy, that’s Jungle Raj. The people have decided to end this,” she added.

As voting began for the first phase of Bihar Assembly Elections today, BJP’s young face Maithili Thakur, contesting from Alinagar (Constituency 81), visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Darbhanga to offer prayers before heading to the polling booths.

At just 25, Maithili is the youngest candidate in the Bihar elections and a popular folk singer stepping into politics for the first time. She is taking on senior RJD leader Binod Mishra, 63, and Jan Suraaj Party’s Biplaw Kumar Chowdhary in what locals are calling a “battle between youth and experience.”

Speaking to reporters, Maithili said, “I start my day with prayers and I’m learning every day. My focus is to ensure that every voter faces no problem.”

People in Alinagar are hoping for better roads and improved infrastructure this time. In 2020, the seat recorded a 57.4% voter turnout.

As Bihar heads into the first phase of voting, RJD leader and Mahagathbandhan’s chief ministerial face Tejashwi Yadav called on people to step out and make their voices heard through the ballot. Speaking to reporters, he urged every voter to participate actively in shaping the state’s future. “Everyone should come out of their houses and vote for change, vote for development, vote for jobs,” he said, striking a tone of optimism and hope.

Yadav’s message comes as the state witnesses intense political competition between the ruling NDA and the opposition Mahagathbandhan.

BJP national spokesperson Ajay Alok made a strong appeal to voters to step out and participate in large numbers. Calling it the “festival of democracy,” Alok said that this was the people’s chance to bring real change through their vote.

Speaking to ANI in Patna, he said, “Festival of democracy starts today. I appeal to everyone for maximum voter turnout. This is the day when you can do ‘Dhulaai’ of the politicians, as the people of ‘Jungle Raj’ need ‘Dhulaai’ every five years.”

Alok took a dig at the opposition, saying that the people have the power to hold leaders accountable through the ballot. His comments come as the first phase of polling began across 121 constituencies in 18 districts.

As Bihar votes in the first phase of its assembly elections today, all eyes are on Mokama. The constituency is simmering with tension and political drama. The murder of Jan Suraaj supporter Dularchand Yadav just days before polling has cast a shadow over the fierce triangular battle here.

RJD’s Veena Devi, accompanied by her husband and former MP Surajbhan Singh, offered prayers early morning, urging people to “vote without fear.” Facing her is JD(U)’s Anant Singh, known locally as “Chhote Sarkar,” who returns to the battlefield after his recent acquittal. Jan Suraaj’s Priyadarshi Piyush adds a fresh edge to the contest.

Once Anant Singh’s fortress, Mokama now witnesses a clash of Bhumihaar heavyweights.

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh casts his vote in the Bihar Election 2025, at a polling booth in Patna

He said, "This is a festival of democracy. We must follow 'Pehle matdaan, phir jal-paan'...NDA government in the leadership of Nitish Kumar will be formed in Bihar again."

‘I cannot vote without voter slip’: Two women allege they were not allowed to cast their votes in Bihar

In Bihar, two women alleged that they were not allowed to cast their votes during the first phase of the Assembly elections.

One of them, Shreya Mehta, claimed, “The BLO did not give us the voter slip and asked us to download it digitally. My name is on the voters’ list, and I also have my voter ID card. Still, I was told I cannot vote without the slip. We have been waiting here since 6:30 AM, and now we’re leaving without casting our vote.”

Anupama Sharma alleged, "I was not allowed to vote. They are saying, I do not have the slip. My name is there on the list as well. I have my ID card as well. I will not cast my vote now. I have been asked to wait for 5 minutes. This is the first time we are facing such an issue..."

Festival of democracy: People queue up to vote for Bihar assembly polls Phase 1

People from all sections of society came out to vote in the high-stakes first phase of the Bihar Assembly polls. Be it elderly women, young voters, men, candidates, or celebrities — all participated in this festival of democracy.

Singer and BJP candidate from Alinagar, Maithili Thakur, offered prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Alinagar, Darbhanga, ahead of polling in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections.

In Vaishali, family members were seen carrying an elderly woman to a polling booth so she could cast her vote in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, a touching display of determination and democratic spirit.

BJP candidate from Bankipur cast his vote in Digha, Patna

Bihar Minister and BJP candidate from Bankipur, Nitin Nabin, cast his vote in Digha, Patna, and emphasised the need to accelerate development in the state. “A well-organised government with good governance must be established, and the public must take this development forward,” he said.

Responding to the RJD’s remarks, Nabin said the Opposition lacked faith in the people of Bihar. On Rahul Gandhi’s allegations of vote rigging in the Haryana elections, he added, “Rahul Gandhi has already accepted defeat. He never raises such issues in states like Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh, where Congress has won.”

Bihar elections 2025: Security personnel help elderly woman reach booth to cast her vote in phase 1

A heartwarming moment from Lakhanpur in the Tarapur constituency, where a security personnel was seen assisting an elderly woman to the polling booth as she arrived to cast her vote in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections.

PM Modi urges people to vote for Bihar assembly elections Phase 1

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters to turn out in large numbers as polling began for the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections. Calling it the “festival of democracy,” he appealed to citizens to vote with full enthusiasm. Extending special wishes to first-time voters, he reminded them to prioritise their democratic duty: “First voting, then refreshments.”

Voting for the first phase of the Bihar Election 2025 begins

Polling for the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections is underway across all 121 constituencies. Union Minister and BJP leader Giriraj Singh was among the early voters, casting his ballot this morning in Lakhisarai.