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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Nov 12, 2025, 13:40:09 IST
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Bihar Election 2025 Live Updates: 'Truly unforgettable,' Chirag Paswan praises high voter turnout in Bihar elections
Bihar Assembly elections Phase 2 voting LIVE: Bihar saw a strong voter participation in the second and final phase of the Assembly Elections 2025, with the state recording an impressive 68.52% voter turnout, according to data from the Election Commission of India.
Meanwhile, leaders from both alliances voiced confidence in their prospects. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha said the “change” witnessed in the first phase had now become a “big wave” set to unseat the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
“The change that knocked on our doors in the first phase is now turning into a big wave... The Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the UP CM, and several other ministers tried to shift the focus from issues like jobs, migration, and social security. But Bihar hasn’t changed its pitch,” Jha told ANI.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, after casting his vote with his wife Renu Hussain in Supaul, said he was confident people would vote for development.
“I have voted. I appeal to everyone to cast their vote. Humne jalpan nahi kiya, pehle matdan kiya. We will go home now and then have breakfast,” he said.
Polling began at 7 am across 122 constituencies in 20 districts, covering nearly 3.7 crore electors. This phase will decide the fate of 12 ministers from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s cabinet.
The JD(U) leaders in the fray include Vijendra Yadav (Supaul), Lesi Singh (Dhamdaha), Jayant Kushwaha (Amarpur), Sumit Singh (Chakai), Mohammad Jama Khan (Chainpur), and Sheela Mandal (Phoolparas). BJP ministers contesting are Prem Kumar (Gaya), Renu Devi (Bettiah), Vijay Kumar Mandal (Sikati), Nitish Mishra (Jhanjharpur), Neeraj Bablu (Chhatapur), and Krishnanandan Paswan (Harsiddhi).
Other key constituencies include Sasaram, Imamganj, Mohania, Bihpur, Gopalpur, Pirpainti, Bhagalpur, Sultanganj, and Nathnagar.
The first phase of polling, held on November 6, recorded a historic 65.08% turnout — the highest ever in Bihar’s electoral history. Counting of votes for all 243 Assembly seats will be held on November 14.
Meanwhile, leaders from both alliances voiced confidence in their prospects. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha said the “change” witnessed in the first phase had now become a “big wave” set to unseat the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
“The change that knocked on our doors in the first phase is now turning into a big wave... The Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the UP CM, and several other ministers tried to shift the focus from issues like jobs, migration, and social security. But Bihar hasn’t changed its pitch,” Jha told ANI.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, after casting his vote with his wife Renu Hussain in Supaul, said he was confident people would vote for development.
“I have voted. I appeal to everyone to cast their vote. Humne jalpan nahi kiya, pehle matdan kiya. We will go home now and then have breakfast,” he said.
Polling began at 7 am across 122 constituencies in 20 districts, covering nearly 3.7 crore electors. This phase will decide the fate of 12 ministers from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s cabinet.
The JD(U) leaders in the fray include Vijendra Yadav (Supaul), Lesi Singh (Dhamdaha), Jayant Kushwaha (Amarpur), Sumit Singh (Chakai), Mohammad Jama Khan (Chainpur), and Sheela Mandal (Phoolparas). BJP ministers contesting are Prem Kumar (Gaya), Renu Devi (Bettiah), Vijay Kumar Mandal (Sikati), Nitish Mishra (Jhanjharpur), Neeraj Bablu (Chhatapur), and Krishnanandan Paswan (Harsiddhi).
Other key constituencies include Sasaram, Imamganj, Mohania, Bihpur, Gopalpur, Pirpainti, Bhagalpur, Sultanganj, and Nathnagar.
The first phase of polling, held on November 6, recorded a historic 65.08% turnout — the highest ever in Bihar’s electoral history. Counting of votes for all 243 Assembly seats will be held on November 14.
07:26 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Election 2025 Live Updates: BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal cast his vote at a polling booth in Bettiah
07:22 (IST) Nov 11
Phase 2 Voting Live: Security has been tightened at the Kishanganj-Bengal border in view of the second phase of the Bihar Assembly polls
07:22 (IST) Nov 11
People queue up outside Madrasa Darul Huda Kathotia, Booth No-199, Barari, as voting begins for the second phase of the Bihar assembly polls
07:16 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Assembly elections Phase 2 voting Live: 'The public has already made up their mind': Bhojpuri singer Pawan Singh's wife and independent candidate from the Karakat Assembly constituency Jyoti Singh
Bhojpuri singer-actor Pawan Singh's wife and independent candidate from the Karakat Assembly constituency, Jyoti Singh said, "I apologise to the public as I could not reach many places. I request the public's support in giving me the opportunity to serve them...The public has already made up their mind to make me victorious as I am receiving a lot of support from them."
07:14 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Election 2025 Live: 'Come out and vote in large numbers for justice and development': JD(U) leader
JD(U) leader Umesh Singh Kushwaha said, "I appeal to the voters of the 122 districts to come out and vote in large numbers for justice and development. Give pace to the double-engine government of Bihar and secure the future of your children..."
07:11 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Election 2025 Live: 'Vote after comparing the situation before and after 2005'; Bihar minister Shravan Kumar says
Bihar minister Shravan Kumar said, "I appeal to the voters to vote after comparing the situation before and after 2005. Voters should vote for the NDA to secure the future of their children..."
07:04 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar polls: Voting for the second and final phase of Bihar assembly elections begins across 122 of the 243 assembly seats in the state
Voting for the second and final phase of Bihar elections begins across 122 of the 243 assembly seats in the state.
Former Deputy CMs Renu Devi and Tarkishore Prasad, Congress leader Ajeet Sharma and other candidates in the fray.
Former Deputy CMs Renu Devi and Tarkishore Prasad, Congress leader Ajeet Sharma and other candidates in the fray.
06:04 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Election 2025 Live: BJP confident of 'historic' win in Bihar polls; takes 'tourist' jibe at Rahul over tiger safari
The BJP on Monday exuded confidence about the NDA's "decisive and historic" victory in the Bihar assembly polls, as it took a swipe at Rahul Gandhi over his jungle safari in Madhya Pradesh's Satpura Tiger Reserve, asking him to enjoy his "political tourism".
Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters here, senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad also slammed Tejashwi Yadav, terming the RJD leader's accusations against the Election Commission "false".
It has become a "habit" of opposition leaders to attack "all organs of democracy" when they do not get the result they want, he claimed, adding they are making such baseless claims out of "frustration", sensing their imminent defeat in the Bihar polls.
"Did we send police (security forces) or EC to Bihar? Making false allegations; he has stooped to such a level," the BJP leader said, reacting sharply to Yadav's claim that altogether 208 companies of security personnel from the BJP-ruled states have been deployed in Bihar for poll duties.
On Yadav criticising the EC for not disclosing the gender-wise data of electors who cast their votes in the first phase of polling, Prasad, who is an MP from Patna Sahib, asked the RJD leader to wait. The poll panel will release data of voters, including that of women and youth, he said.
The BJP leader reacted sharply to Yadav's allegation that the poll panel was working as a "tool" of the BJP. "What kind of language is this?"
Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters here, senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad also slammed Tejashwi Yadav, terming the RJD leader's accusations against the Election Commission "false".
It has become a "habit" of opposition leaders to attack "all organs of democracy" when they do not get the result they want, he claimed, adding they are making such baseless claims out of "frustration", sensing their imminent defeat in the Bihar polls.
"Did we send police (security forces) or EC to Bihar? Making false allegations; he has stooped to such a level," the BJP leader said, reacting sharply to Yadav's claim that altogether 208 companies of security personnel from the BJP-ruled states have been deployed in Bihar for poll duties.
On Yadav criticising the EC for not disclosing the gender-wise data of electors who cast their votes in the first phase of polling, Prasad, who is an MP from Patna Sahib, asked the RJD leader to wait. The poll panel will release data of voters, including that of women and youth, he said.
The BJP leader reacted sharply to Yadav's allegation that the poll panel was working as a "tool" of the BJP. "What kind of language is this?"
06:04 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Elections 2025 Live: RJD MP Manoj Jha writes to EC over non-release or gender-wise polling data for Bihar
RJD MP Manoj Jha has written to the Election Commission of India expressing concern over the poll panel not publishing gender-wise voter turnout statistics for the first phase of Bihar elections held on November 6.
Tagging the Election Commission (EC), the Rajya Sabha MP said in a post on X that the RJD has sent a letter regarding the non-release of gender-wise voter turnout data for Phase-1 of polling in Bihar.
Elections were held for 121 seats in Bihar on November 6, and the remaining 122 constituencies will go to polls on Tuesday. The counting will take place on November 14.
"You would agree that transparent and timely dissemination of electoral data is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. In recent election cycles, the Commission has repeatedly fallen short of this standard, withholding crucial information that the public, analysts, and civil society organisations rely upon to assess the inclusiveness and fairness of the electoral process," Jha said.
"The absence of gender-disaggregated turnout figures also undermine public confidence in the integrity of the electoral system," he said.
Jha urged the poll panel to immediately release gender-wise voter turnout data for Phase-1, and provide a clear, written explanation for the delay in publishing these statistics, outlining the steps being taken to prevent similar lapses in data for the next phase of polling.
He hoped that the data would be released and an explanation would be given as soon as possible.
Tagging the Election Commission (EC), the Rajya Sabha MP said in a post on X that the RJD has sent a letter regarding the non-release of gender-wise voter turnout data for Phase-1 of polling in Bihar.
Elections were held for 121 seats in Bihar on November 6, and the remaining 122 constituencies will go to polls on Tuesday. The counting will take place on November 14.
"You would agree that transparent and timely dissemination of electoral data is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. In recent election cycles, the Commission has repeatedly fallen short of this standard, withholding crucial information that the public, analysts, and civil society organisations rely upon to assess the inclusiveness and fairness of the electoral process," Jha said.
"The absence of gender-disaggregated turnout figures also undermine public confidence in the integrity of the electoral system," he said.
Jha urged the poll panel to immediately release gender-wise voter turnout data for Phase-1, and provide a clear, written explanation for the delay in publishing these statistics, outlining the steps being taken to prevent similar lapses in data for the next phase of polling.
He hoped that the data would be released and an explanation would be given as soon as possible.
06:03 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Election 2025 Live: 'Sankhya jo bhi ho, sarkaar hamara ban raha hai': RJD MP Misa Bharti expressed confidence in Mahagathbandhan's victory
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Misa Bharti expressed confidence that the Mahagathbandhan would form the next government in Bihar, as voting began for the first phase of the assembly elections.
Bharti said that Bihar’s youth were eager for change, accusing the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) of deceiving people for the past two decades.
“No matter what the numbers are, our (Mahagathbandhan) government will definitely be formed because the youth want it. For 20 years, the double-engine government has been engaged in deceiving people,” Bharti told reporters.
She also hit out at Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, alias Lalan Singh, alleging that he had instructed people to lock up the poor and prevent them from voting — calling it a true example of “jungle raj.”
“A cabinet minister of the NDA is saying lock up the poor and don’t allow them to vote. This is Jungle Raj. The way murders are happening in Mokama, this is Jungle Raj. The youth and people of Bihar have decided that this time, Tejashwi Yadav will become the Chief Minister,” she added.
Earlier, RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, his wife and former CM Rabri Devi, Mahagathbandhan’s CM face Tejashwi Yadav, his wife Rajshree Yadav, and leaders including Misa Bharti and Rohini Acharya cast their votes in Patna.
Bharti said that Bihar’s youth were eager for change, accusing the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) of deceiving people for the past two decades.
“No matter what the numbers are, our (Mahagathbandhan) government will definitely be formed because the youth want it. For 20 years, the double-engine government has been engaged in deceiving people,” Bharti told reporters.
She also hit out at Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, alias Lalan Singh, alleging that he had instructed people to lock up the poor and prevent them from voting — calling it a true example of “jungle raj.”
“A cabinet minister of the NDA is saying lock up the poor and don’t allow them to vote. This is Jungle Raj. The way murders are happening in Mokama, this is Jungle Raj. The youth and people of Bihar have decided that this time, Tejashwi Yadav will become the Chief Minister,” she added.
Earlier, RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, his wife and former CM Rabri Devi, Mahagathbandhan’s CM face Tejashwi Yadav, his wife Rajshree Yadav, and leaders including Misa Bharti and Rohini Acharya cast their votes in Patna.
06:03 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Elections 2025 Live: ECI enforces silence period and exit poll ban ahead of Bihar polls
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a reminder to all media platforms and broadcasters regarding strict adherence to the “silence period” and exit poll restrictions ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections and by-elections scheduled next month.
According to the schedule, polling for the Bihar Assembly elections will be conducted in two phases — on November 6 and November 11.
Citing Section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Election Commission reiterated that no poll-related content can be displayed through television, radio, or similar media during the 48 hours preceding the end of polling in each phase.
During this “silence period", channels and networks are prohibited from broadcasting or telecasting any material that may influence voter behavior or affect the electoral prospects of any political party or candidate.
This includes discussions, debates, or opinions that may be construed as campaign propaganda. In addition, under Section 126A of the same Act, the conduct and publication of exit polls have been strictly banned from 7 a.m. on November 6 to 6.30 p.m. on November 11.
This restriction covers all forms of dissemination -- print, electronic, and digital. The ECI emphasised that violation of these provisions could lead to imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both.
According to the schedule, polling for the Bihar Assembly elections will be conducted in two phases — on November 6 and November 11.
Citing Section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Election Commission reiterated that no poll-related content can be displayed through television, radio, or similar media during the 48 hours preceding the end of polling in each phase.
During this “silence period", channels and networks are prohibited from broadcasting or telecasting any material that may influence voter behavior or affect the electoral prospects of any political party or candidate.
This includes discussions, debates, or opinions that may be construed as campaign propaganda. In addition, under Section 126A of the same Act, the conduct and publication of exit polls have been strictly banned from 7 a.m. on November 6 to 6.30 p.m. on November 11.
This restriction covers all forms of dissemination -- print, electronic, and digital. The ECI emphasised that violation of these provisions could lead to imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both.
06:02 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Election 2025 Live: Elderly voters lead by example as Bihar elections Phase 1 begins with high enthusiasm
Extreme enthusiasm was evident among voters, as an elderly woman arrived at the Lakhanpur polling station in the Tarapur constituency to cast her vote.
The security personnel assisted the elderly woman in reaching the polling booth so that she could cast her vote.
Meanwhile, an elderly couple also posed to showcase their inked fingers after casting their votes in the first phase of the Bihar elections.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the people of Bihar to participate in the festival of democracy with full enthusiasm to exercise their voting rights.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi also extended congratulations to the young voters who are going to cast their vote for the first time, urging them to prioritise voting before all chores, saying, "Pehle matdaan, fir jalpaan."
"Today in Bihar is the first phase of the festival of democracy. My appeal to all voters of this phase in the assembly elections is that they should vote with full enthusiasm. On this occasion, my special congratulations to all my young companions of the state who are going to cast their vote for the first time. Remember--first voting, then refreshments!" PM Modi posted on X.
Voting for the first phase of the 2025 assembly elections in Bihar began today at 7:00 am across 121 constituencies in 18 districts of the state, covering approximately 3.75 crore electors and 243 seats.
The security personnel assisted the elderly woman in reaching the polling booth so that she could cast her vote.
Meanwhile, an elderly couple also posed to showcase their inked fingers after casting their votes in the first phase of the Bihar elections.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the people of Bihar to participate in the festival of democracy with full enthusiasm to exercise their voting rights.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi also extended congratulations to the young voters who are going to cast their vote for the first time, urging them to prioritise voting before all chores, saying, "Pehle matdaan, fir jalpaan."
"Today in Bihar is the first phase of the festival of democracy. My appeal to all voters of this phase in the assembly elections is that they should vote with full enthusiasm. On this occasion, my special congratulations to all my young companions of the state who are going to cast their vote for the first time. Remember--first voting, then refreshments!" PM Modi posted on X.
Voting for the first phase of the 2025 assembly elections in Bihar began today at 7:00 am across 121 constituencies in 18 districts of the state, covering approximately 3.75 crore electors and 243 seats.
00:52 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Elections 2025 Live: People will rise above caste, vote for good society: Prashant Kishor ahead of phase of Bihar polls
Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor on Monday exuded confidence that people of Bihar will not "restrict" themselves to religion and caste and vote to lay solid foundations for a "good society". He also noted the record voter turnout in the first phase of the Bihar assembly polls.
"We are confident that the people of Bihar will rise above caste, religion, and money in the coming times and vote for a good society," the former political strategist turned politician told reporters here in response to a query ahead of the second phase of polling to be held on Tuesday.
Regarding the feedback from across the State on the assembly poll, Kishor said, "For the first time since independence, such a large number of votes have been cast in Bihar... People have voted in such huge numbers so that corruption can be eradicated from Bihar..."
Meanwhile, in an interview with ANI, Kishor on Sunday claimed that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is "on his way out," asserting that the high voter turnout seen in the ongoing Assembly elections reflected "anti-incumbency" sentiments rather than support for the ruling government.
The Jan Suraaj chief added that the state's electoral atmosphere is "very messy," cautioning that without scientific exit polls, any predictions about the outcome are "baseless".
Kishor said, "No, look, Nitish ji is going. Don't forget this. Now, 65-67% vote in Bihar, this is not pro-incumbency. This is not possible. So, let the results come now. Because it is a very messed-up situation. Unless you are doing a scientific exit poll, the people who are talking are talking in the air. That's why they are talking."
He further commented on the rising participation of women voters, suggesting that government schemes such as the Rs 10,000 cash benefit under Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, cycle and uniform distribution, and pension assistance might have influenced the turnout.
"We are confident that the people of Bihar will rise above caste, religion, and money in the coming times and vote for a good society," the former political strategist turned politician told reporters here in response to a query ahead of the second phase of polling to be held on Tuesday.
Regarding the feedback from across the State on the assembly poll, Kishor said, "For the first time since independence, such a large number of votes have been cast in Bihar... People have voted in such huge numbers so that corruption can be eradicated from Bihar..."
Meanwhile, in an interview with ANI, Kishor on Sunday claimed that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is "on his way out," asserting that the high voter turnout seen in the ongoing Assembly elections reflected "anti-incumbency" sentiments rather than support for the ruling government.
The Jan Suraaj chief added that the state's electoral atmosphere is "very messy," cautioning that without scientific exit polls, any predictions about the outcome are "baseless".
Kishor said, "No, look, Nitish ji is going. Don't forget this. Now, 65-67% vote in Bihar, this is not pro-incumbency. This is not possible. So, let the results come now. Because it is a very messed-up situation. Unless you are doing a scientific exit poll, the people who are talking are talking in the air. That's why they are talking."
He further commented on the rising participation of women voters, suggesting that government schemes such as the Rs 10,000 cash benefit under Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, cycle and uniform distribution, and pension assistance might have influenced the turnout.
00:52 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Election 2025 Live: Bhagalpur showdown: Congress defends stronghold against BJP challenge
All eyes are on the Bhagalpur Assembly constituency as the district gears up for polling in the second phase of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections on November 11.
Bhagalpur, one of the most closely watched constituencies in the state, will witness a direct contest between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with Ajeet Sharma representing the Congress and Rohit Pandey contesting on a BJP ticket.
Adding another layer to the electoral dynamics, Abhay Kant Jha from the Jan Suraaj Party, led by Prashant Kishor, is also in the fray, potentially influencing the traditionally bipolar contest.
Bhagalpur, a general category seat, has historically seen intense contests between the Congress and the BJP.
In the 2020 Assembly elections, Ajeet Sharma retained the seat by securing 65,502 votes (40.52%), narrowly defeating Rohit Pandey, who received 64,389 votes (39.83%), winning by a margin of just 1,113 votes.
In 2015, Sharma also emerged victorious with 70,514 votes (46.24%), defeating his BJP rival, Arjit Shashwat Choubey, who polled 59,856 votes (39.25%), by a margin of 10,658 votes.
The second phase of polling in Bhagalpur district will also cover six other constituencies--Bihpur, Gopalpur, Pirpainti (SC), Kahalgaon, Sultanganj, and Nathnagar--setting the stage for a high-stakes contest between the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Mahagathbandhan.
Bhagalpur, one of the most closely watched constituencies in the state, will witness a direct contest between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with Ajeet Sharma representing the Congress and Rohit Pandey contesting on a BJP ticket.
Adding another layer to the electoral dynamics, Abhay Kant Jha from the Jan Suraaj Party, led by Prashant Kishor, is also in the fray, potentially influencing the traditionally bipolar contest.
Bhagalpur, a general category seat, has historically seen intense contests between the Congress and the BJP.
In the 2020 Assembly elections, Ajeet Sharma retained the seat by securing 65,502 votes (40.52%), narrowly defeating Rohit Pandey, who received 64,389 votes (39.83%), winning by a margin of just 1,113 votes.
In 2015, Sharma also emerged victorious with 70,514 votes (46.24%), defeating his BJP rival, Arjit Shashwat Choubey, who polled 59,856 votes (39.25%), by a margin of 10,658 votes.
The second phase of polling in Bhagalpur district will also cover six other constituencies--Bihpur, Gopalpur, Pirpainti (SC), Kahalgaon, Sultanganj, and Nathnagar--setting the stage for a high-stakes contest between the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Mahagathbandhan.
00:52 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Elections 2025 Live: Nitish Kumar 'is going', 65-67% votes in Bihar not pro-incumbency: Prashant Kishor
Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor on Sunday claimed that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is "on his way out," asserting that the high voter turnout seen in the ongoing Assembly elections reflected "anti-incumbency" sentiments rather than support for the ruling government.
The Jan Suraaj chief added that the state's electoral atmosphere is "very messy," cautioning that without scientific exit polls, any predictions about the outcome are "baseless".
In an interview with ANI, Kishor said, "No, look, Nitish ji is going. Don't forget this. Now, 65-67% vote in Bihar, this is not pro-incumbency. This is not possible. So, let the results come now. Because it is a very messed-up situation. Unless you are doing a scientific exit poll, the people who are talking are talking in the air. That's why they are talking."
He further commented on the rising participation of women voters, suggesting that government schemes such as the Rs 10,000 cash benefit under Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, cycle and uniform distribution, and pension assistance might have influenced the turnout.
However, Kishor clarified that the apparent higher participation of women was partly due to the "denominator effect," as fewer women are registered voters compared to men.
"Women have always voted, but the percentage looks higher because of registration differences. Still, some impact of Nitish Babu's schemes and a reduction in social-level anger is visible," he explained.
The Jan Suraaj chief added that the state's electoral atmosphere is "very messy," cautioning that without scientific exit polls, any predictions about the outcome are "baseless".
In an interview with ANI, Kishor said, "No, look, Nitish ji is going. Don't forget this. Now, 65-67% vote in Bihar, this is not pro-incumbency. This is not possible. So, let the results come now. Because it is a very messed-up situation. Unless you are doing a scientific exit poll, the people who are talking are talking in the air. That's why they are talking."
He further commented on the rising participation of women voters, suggesting that government schemes such as the Rs 10,000 cash benefit under Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, cycle and uniform distribution, and pension assistance might have influenced the turnout.
However, Kishor clarified that the apparent higher participation of women was partly due to the "denominator effect," as fewer women are registered voters compared to men.
"Women have always voted, but the percentage looks higher because of registration differences. Still, some impact of Nitish Babu's schemes and a reduction in social-level anger is visible," he explained.
00:51 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar polls: Parties' caste arithmetic vs caste survey — who is living upto Karpoori's dream?
It has been over three decades since former Bihar chief minister and champion of backward classes, Karpoori Thakur, exited the political stage. Yet, his ideological heirs — RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav and JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar — continue to invoke his legacy on the issue of social justice.
When the RJD–JD(U)-led Mahagathbandhan came to power in 2022, it initiated a caste survey to determine the exact population of the state’s Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Extremely Backward Classes (EBC), aiming to bolster demands for expanded reservations. After initial resistance, the BJP too eventually backed the exercise.
Staying true to its traditional Yadav–Muslim base, the RJD allocated tickets to 28 Yadavs and 6 Muslims, while also fielding candidates from upper-caste and EBC communities — though precise figures remain undisclosed as Tejashwi Yadav is yet to make an official announcement.
The Congress, meanwhile, has declared 48 candidates for the upcoming elections. Of these, 17 (35.4%) belong to upper castes — including 8 Bhumihars, 6 Brahmins, and 5 Rajputs. Ten seats (20.8%) were allotted to OBCs — 5 Yadavs, 1 Kurmi, 1 Goswami, 1 Kushwaha, and 3 Vaishyas. The party also fielded 5 candidates each (10.4%) from Muslim and EBC communities, 9 (18.8%) from the Scheduled Castes, and 1 (2.1%) from the state’s lone Scheduled Tribe-reserved seat.
Read full story00:50 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Elections 2025 Live: Steep climb for NDA in Magadh-Bhojpur; key region could make or break Nitish Kumar
Weighed down by anti-incumbency and internal rifts, the BJP–JD(U)-led National Democratic Alliance faces an uphill battle in Bihar’s politically volatile and caste-sensitive Magadh and Bhojpur regions — a contest that could determine whether Nitish Kumar holds on to power or yields ground to the Mahagathbandhan.
In the closely fought 2020 assembly elections, the Magadh–Bhojpur belt emerged as a bright spot for the Rashtriya Janata Dal-led alliance, which put up a fierce fight against the NDA and ultimately came out on top.
While the Mithilanchal and Tirhut regions handed the NDA narrow victories, Magadh and Bhojpur — which together elect 69 of Bihar’s 243 MLAs — ensured the opposition maintained a strong presence in the Vidhan Sabha.
The Magadh region, comprising Arwal, Jehanabad, Aurangabad, Gaya, and Nawada districts, accounts for 26 seats. In 2015, when Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was aligned with the RJD and Congress, the NDA managed to win only six seats across the broader Shahabad belt.
Read full story00:49 (IST) Nov 11
Bihar Elections 2025 Live: Little sign of anti-incumbency or voter fatigue, why Nitish Kumar endures in Bihar
Predicting election outcomes in Bihar is never easy, but one trend stands out — there’s little sign of anger or voter fatigue with Nitish Kumar, even after two decades in power. This holds true across communities, including sections of Muslims traditionally opposed to the BJP, his key ally.
At Madarsa Chawk in Muzaffarpur’s Kurhani constituency, Sabbu Mirza said, “Although I will vote for RJD, you won’t find people speaking against Nitish even after four full terms.” His uncle, Muhammad Amanullah, a JD(U) panchayat-level post-holder, added, “Nitish is not the leader of one caste. He has a mass base, and that is his appeal.”
Nitish’s own caste, the Kurmis, make up around 3% of Bihar’s population—far fewer than the 14% Yadavs or 18% Muslims. Yet, his support extends beyond traditional caste blocs to sections such as Hindu upper castes (10%), Kushwahas (over 4%), Paswans (more than 5%), Musahars (over 3%), and Mallahs (around 2.6%).
Read full storyhttps://thetimesofindia.online/elections/assembly-elections/bihar/little-sign-of-anti-incumbency-or-voter-fatigue-why-nitish-kumar-endures-in-bihar/articleshow/125119799.cms
Bihar witnessed a robust voter participation in the second and final phase of the Assembly Elections 2025, with the state recording an impressive 68.52% voter turnout, according to data released by the Election Commission of India.
Meanwhile, political leaders from both alliances expressed confidence in their prospects. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha said the “change” seen in the first phase had now turned into a “big wave” that would unseat the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
“The change that knocked on our doors in the first phase is now turning into a big wave... The Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the UP CM, and countless other ministers tried to shift the pitch away from issues like jobs, migration, and social security. But Bihar hasn’t changed its pitch,” Jha told ANI.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, after casting his vote with his wife Renu Hussain in Supaul, said he was confident voters would choose development.
“I have voted. I appeal to everyone to cast their vote. Humne jalpan nahi kiya, pehle matdan kiya. We will go home now and then have breakfast,” he said.
Voting began at 7 am across 122 constituencies in 20 districts, covering nearly 3.7 crore electors. This phase will decide the fate of 12 ministers from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s cabinet.
Among them are JD(U) leaders Vijendra Yadav (Supaul), Lesi Singh (Dhamdaha), Jayant Kushwaha (Amarpur), Sumit Singh (Chakai), Mohammad Jama Khan (Chainpur), and Sheela Mandal (Phoolparas). BJP ministers in the fray include Prem Kumar (Gaya), Renu Devi (Bettiah), Vijay Kumar Mandal (Sikati), Nitish Mishra (Jhanjharpur), Neeraj Bablu (Chhatapur), and Krishnanandan Paswan (Harsiddhi).
Other key constituencies include Sasaram, Imamganj, Mohania, Bihpur, Gopalpur, Pirpainti, Bhagalpur, Sultanganj, and Nathnagar.
The first phase of polling held on November 6 saw a record 65.08% turnout — the highest in Bihar’s electoral history. Counting of votes for all 243 Assembly seats will be held on November 14.
Meanwhile, political leaders from both alliances expressed confidence in their prospects. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha said the “change” seen in the first phase had now turned into a “big wave” that would unseat the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
“The change that knocked on our doors in the first phase is now turning into a big wave... The Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the UP CM, and countless other ministers tried to shift the pitch away from issues like jobs, migration, and social security. But Bihar hasn’t changed its pitch,” Jha told ANI.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, after casting his vote with his wife Renu Hussain in Supaul, said he was confident voters would choose development.
“I have voted. I appeal to everyone to cast their vote. Humne jalpan nahi kiya, pehle matdan kiya. We will go home now and then have breakfast,” he said.
Voting began at 7 am across 122 constituencies in 20 districts, covering nearly 3.7 crore electors. This phase will decide the fate of 12 ministers from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s cabinet.
Among them are JD(U) leaders Vijendra Yadav (Supaul), Lesi Singh (Dhamdaha), Jayant Kushwaha (Amarpur), Sumit Singh (Chakai), Mohammad Jama Khan (Chainpur), and Sheela Mandal (Phoolparas). BJP ministers in the fray include Prem Kumar (Gaya), Renu Devi (Bettiah), Vijay Kumar Mandal (Sikati), Nitish Mishra (Jhanjharpur), Neeraj Bablu (Chhatapur), and Krishnanandan Paswan (Harsiddhi).
Other key constituencies include Sasaram, Imamganj, Mohania, Bihpur, Gopalpur, Pirpainti, Bhagalpur, Sultanganj, and Nathnagar.
The first phase of polling held on November 6 saw a record 65.08% turnout — the highest in Bihar’s electoral history. Counting of votes for all 243 Assembly seats will be held on November 14.
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