Fourth Phase of Lok Sabha Polls: 56.85% Voter Turnout on Five Seats In Bihar

Patna: Voting was conducted across five constituencies in Bihar during the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Monday, showcasing a mixed turnout with some notable incidents.

In Darbhanga, Ujiarpur, Samastipur, Begusarai, and Munger, the overall voter turnout stood at 56.85 percent. Begusarai witnessed the highest voter participation at 58.40 percent, while Munger recorded the lowest at 55%.

According to Chief Electoral Officer HR Srinivas and ADG Headquarters JS Gangwar, voter turnout this year saw a decrease of 2.3% compared to the last Lok Sabha elections.

However, amidst the electoral process, tragic incidents unfolded. In Munger, the presiding officer, Omkar Kumar Chaudhary, passed away due to a heart attack before polling commenced. Chaudhary, who was on duty at booth number 210 in Shankarpur village, had reportedly applied to the district administration for exemption due to his heart condition, but his duty was still imposed.

Another distressing incident occurred in Barauni Panchayat-2, where a voter collapsed and died after becoming unconscious while exercising his franchise. Despite prompt medical attention, the individual could not be revived.

Additionally, reports emerged of stone-pelting incidents at two polling booths in Munger. Anti-social elements targeted booths number 145 and 146, allegedly due to a dispute over the distribution of voting slips. Meanwhile, in Chakrarajali village of the Mohiuddin Nagar assembly in Ujiarpur, Dalit voters were reportedly obstructed from casting their votes. The situation prompted a swift response from administrative officials and law enforcement, who intervened to ensure the continuation of the electoral process.