Patna: In a move aimed at easing voter experience, the Election Commission of India has announced that voters in Bihar will be allowed to deposit their mobile phones outside polling stations during the upcoming assembly elections. The phones must be switched off and can only be carried up to 100 metres from the booth, where designated deposit points—such as pigeonhole boxes or jute bags—will be arranged near the entrance.
The decision was shared following a four-day visit to Bihar by Election Commissioner Vivek Joshi, who reviewed electoral preparedness, including the first-level checking of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and the VVPAT verification process.
Focus on Accessibility and Youth Registration
Joshi underscored the need to make polling stations more accessible, especially in remote and forested areas. He instructed officials to ensure all polling booths are well-equipped for voter convenience and directed timely updates of the voter list, especially the removal of names of deceased voters.
He also raised concern over the sharp drop in voter registration among the 18–19 age group. Out of an estimated 204,162 eligible youth, only 29,897 had registered—an 85% decline. Calling the electoral roll a “dynamic document,” Joshi urged prompt corrective action and reiterated the importance of conducting electoral duties with transparency, integrity and urgency.
The Full-Scale Launch of EVM checks is currently underway across all districts and is expected to be completed by June 30.
