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Are Bihar voters prioritizing development over caste and political loyalties? Early reports indicate youth employment and women’s safety are the key factors shaping the first phase of the state elections.
Patna: The first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections 2025, covering 18 districts and 121 constituencies, began at 7 AM and will continue until 6 PM. By 9 AM, voter turnout averaged 13.13 percent, with Saharsa district leading at 15.27 percent and Lakhisarai recording the lowest at 7 percent. Other districts reported Begusarai 14.60 percent, Buxar 13.28 percent, Darbhanga 12.48 percent, Gopalganj 13.97 percent, Muzaffarpur 14.38 percent, and Patna 11.22 percent.
Voter Concerns Center on Jobs and Safety
This election sees voters focusing on tangible issues. Youth are prioritizing employment opportunities, while women highlight personal safety as the most important concern. Citizens are increasingly weighing development and governance over traditional caste or regional loyalties. Political parties have addressed these priorities in their manifestos, emphasizing job creation, women empowerment, and law and order.
High-Profile Candidates Cast Votes
Major leaders including Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu Prasad Yadav, Misa Bharti, Rabri Devi, and Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha have cast their votes. Over 3.75 crore voters are choosing among 1,314 candidates in key constituencies like Patna, Vaishali, Muzaffarpur, and Gopalganj.
Phase One Shapes Bihar’s Electoral Mood
The first phase sets the tone for the second phase, scheduled for November 11, with counting on November 14. Early turnout and voter priorities suggest that development-focused issues could play a decisive role in shaping the future of governance in Bihar.