Patna: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced that voting in seven Naxal-affected assembly constituencies of Bihar will conclude at 5 p.m., an hour earlier than the usual schedule, during the second and final phase of polling on Tuesday.
Polling will take place in 122 constituencies across 20 districts, with 1,302 candidates in the fray and 3.70 crore voters eligible to cast their ballots. While voting in most constituencies will continue until 6 p.m., the commission has restricted the timing in Chainpur, Rajauli (SC), Govindpur, Sikandra (SC), Jamui, Jhajha, and Chakai — all identified as sensitive due to Naxal activity.
Additionally, in 1,202 polling booths spread across several other constituencies, voting will also conclude by 5 p.m. This includes 121 booths in Katoria (SC), 140 in Belhar, 169 in Kutumba (SC), 361 in Imamganj (SC), and several others across Aurangabad, Gaya, and Rohtas districts.
According to the Bihar Chief Electoral Officer’s office, the early closure is a precautionary measure to ensure smooth and safe polling in vulnerable areas. “Adequate forces have been deployed, and we are fully prepared to ensure peaceful voting,” an official said.
To strengthen surveillance, live webcasting will be conducted from every polling station, allowing both the Election Commission and the Bihar CEO office to monitor proceedings in real time. Two helicopters have also been deployed to respond to emergencies.
The second phase will cover constituencies across regions such as Magadh, Purnia, Mithilanchal, and Kosi, marking the final leg of voting for the 243-member Bihar Legislative Assembly.
