Bihar Elections 2025: Voter turnout hits 31.38 % by 11 AM; Which districts are leading?

Bihar voters have begun casting their ballots in the second phase of the Assembly elections, showing impressive early participation. Which districts are leading in turnout and what does it indicate for political leaders in the race?

Patna: The second phase of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 has recorded an approximate voter turnout of 31.38 percent as of 11:00 AM. Polling began at 7:00 AM across 122 key constituencies in 20 districts and will continue until 5:00 PM. Officials say early turnout indicates heightened enthusiasm among the electorate, which comprises over 3.7 crore voters.

District-wise Voter Participation

Among the polling districts, Gaya emerged as the leader in early voting, registering 15.97 percent turnout. Close behind were Kishanganj with 15.81 percent and Jamui with 15.77 percent. Madhubani recorded the lowest early turnout at 13.25 percent. Overall, Bihar's early voter participation by 9:00 AM at 14.55 percent surpassed the first phase, which had 13.13 percent, suggesting growing voter engagement in the crucial second phase.

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By-election Turnout Across the Country

Alongside Bihar, several assembly by-elections across India are witnessing varying voter participation. Nagrota in Jammu and Kashmir recorded 34.47 percent, while Budgam in the same state stood at 21.74 percent. Ghatsila in Jharkhand and Dampa in Mizoram reported turnout of 34.32 percent and 34.38 percent, respectively. Other constituencies include Nuapada in Odisha at 32.51 percent, Tarn Taran in Punjab at 23.35 percent, Anta in Rajasthan at 28.74 percent, and Jubilee Hills in Telangana at 20.76 percent.

Bihar Election 2025: Phase 2 turnout at 14.55% by 9 AM; Will the total surpass expectations?

High Stakes for Key Ministers

The second phase is particularly significant for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's cabinet, with 12 ministers in the fray. JD(U) candidates include Vijendra Yadav, Lesi Singh, Jayant Kushwaha, Sumit Singh, Mohammad Jama Khan, and Sheela Mandal. From the BJP, ministers in the race are Prem Kumar, Renu Devi, Vijay Kumar Mandal, Nitish Mishra, Neeraj Bablu, and Krishnanandan Paswan. Their performance in this phase could shape the overall outcome of the elections and the composition of the next government.

Electoral Significance of Phase Two

With a large electorate engaged and competition intense, the second phase of polling is expected to be decisive in determining the political landscape of Bihar. Election officials have put all measures in place to ensure smooth and transparent voting across all constituencies. Observers say the early turnout indicates that voters are keen to make their voices heard, reflecting the critical nature of these elections.