Buxar: Bihar is set to make history by launching India’s first-ever e-voting pilot in the upcoming municipal general and by-elections in Buxar on June 28. The State Election Commission has introduced this initiative as a step toward inclusive and technology-driven elections, aiming to increase voter turnout and facilitate ease of voting.
About 13,000 eligible voters, including those above 80 years of age, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, patients with incurable diseases, and migrant workers, will be able to cast their votes from home using their Android mobile phones. The system requires pre-registration and ensures anonymity and security. Once a vote is cast, it remains locked until counting begins on June 30.
District Magistrate Vidya Nand Singh reviewed the final preparations and stressed transparency in EVM commissioning and smooth conduct of mock polls, which were held at 5% of polling stations in the presence of candidates. A total of 136 polling stations have been set up in Buxar for the election of Chief Councillor, Deputy Chief Councillor, and Ward Councillors.
To access the e-voting feature, voters must use an Android phone with version 5.0 or above, at least 2 GB RAM, 100 MB of internal storage, and an active SIM to verify identity through OTP. Voting will take place from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm on June 28.
Officials described the initiative as a “revolutionary change” in India’s electoral process. If successful, the model could be extended to the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections later this year, where voter turnout has historically remained below 60%.
The introduction of e-voting also comes amid growing political tensions. Opposition leaders have raised concerns about potential manipulation of voter lists ahead of the state elections. Nonetheless, the administration remains focused on ensuring fair, transparent, and accessible elections across Bihar.
