Poll Body Holds Review Meet With Over 300 Observers For Smooth Conduct Of Bihar Elections

The Election Commission on Friday held a video conference with 348 observers deployed for the upcoming Bihar Legislative Assembly elections, and emphasised strict compliance with voter-facilitation measures to make the polling day pleasant and smooth for all electors.

In the conference call, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr Vivek Joshi, reviewed preparations to ensure a seamless and voter-friendly polling experience, as per the statement issued by the ECI. The poll body instructed observers to ensure that the election machinery fosters a festive and participative environment, motivating voters across Bihar to come out and vote in large numbers.

The poll body also

undertook a holistic review of various aspects crucial to the electoral process, including the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), functioning of border check posts, curbing of fake news and misinformation, and proactive dissemination of verified information.

It also assessed security measures for vulnerable and critical polling stations, handling of complaints through the 1950 toll-free helpline and cVIGIL app, and arrangements at the EVM Strong Rooms, the poll body said.

The Commission also directed all observers to ensure strict maintenance of law and order, full deposition of licensed arms, and seizure of illegal weapons to maintain peace and security during the high-stakes elections.

Progress on several new initiatives was also reviewed, including the Mobile Phone Deposit facility at polling stations, newly designed Voter Information Slips (VIS), popularisation of the ECINet App and its services, 100% webcasting of polling stations, and ensuring two-hourly reporting of approximate voter turnout.

A total of 121 General Observers, 18 Police Observers, and 33 Expenditure Observers have been deployed for Phase 1, while 122 General Observers, 20 Police Observers, and 34 Expenditure Observers will oversee Phase 2 of the Bihar elections.

Bihar Polls 2025

The 243-member Bihar assembly will go to polls in two phases on November 6 and November 11, with results set to be announced on November 14.