Patna: The Bihar Assembly elections are expected to take place between October and November, with the Election Commission likely to announce the official dates following the release of the final voter list on September 30.
According to sources within the Election Commission, the Chief Election Commissioner, accompanied by two other commissioners, will visit Bihar to review preparations. Officials indicate that the election schedule could be announced shortly after Dussehra, with a formal announcement expected in the first or second week of October.
The Commission is reportedly planning a two-phase voting process, rather than three or more, to accommodate major festivals such as Diwali and Chhath Puja. The first phase of polling is anticipated in the first week of November, followed by the second in the second week. Voting is expected to conclude before the current assembly’s term ends on November 22.
Political activity in the state has intensified ahead of the polls, with the National Democratic Alliance and the Grand Alliance actively mobilising supporters and engaging in campaign skirmishes. Meanwhile, the third front and Janasuraj strategist Prashant Kishor are also gearing up for the election, aiming to make an impact.
Experts suggest the electoral climate in Bihar this year could be particularly charged. Festival-timed polling may influence party strategies, while the outcome could reshape the state’s political landscape. Voters will choose representatives for all 243 assembly seats, with the Election Commission emphasising security, voter convenience, and transparency in the process. Electronic voting machines (EVMs) and voter-verified paper audit trails (VVPATs) will once again be used.
As the state awaits the Chief Election Commissioner’s visit and the official schedule, attention is firmly fixed on which leaders and alliances will emerge dominant in Bihar’s evolving political scenario.
