Bihar Elections 2025: RJD claims power cuts at strong booths, CEO rejects allegations

Patna: Voting is proceeding smoothly across Bihar for the first phase of the 2025 Assembly elections covering 121 constituencies. The Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar firmly rejected claims made by the RJD regarding intermittent power cuts at the party’s strong booths. According to the CEO, “This allegation is completely baseless and misleading. Voting is taking place smoothly at all polling stations in Bihar. The Election Commission is following all standard protocols to ensure a fair and uninterrupted process.” The Election Commission of India has ensured all necessary measures for transparency and smooth functioning, with no disruptions reported from any polling station. Voter engagement continues to be robust despite the allegations, reflecting the public’s strong interest in the electoral process. RJD Allegations and Political Reactions The Rashtriya Janata Dal has alleged deliberate power cuts at its strong booths to reduce voter turnout. Party leaders urged the Election Commission to investigate what they described as “rigging with malicious intent.” RJD MP Manoj Jha emphasized that this election is about bringing change. Speaking to the media, he highlighted issues like employment and social security, saying these matters have not been addressed adequately in previous administrations and are crucial to Bihar’s voters. Bihar Polls Phase 1: Patna records lowest polling; Who’s leading the voter turnout race? Family Support and Voter Appeals Former Chief Minister Rabri Devi extended her good wishes to her sons Tejashwi and Tej Pratap Yadav, who are contesting the elections. She encouraged citizens to exercise their voting rights, stating, “I appeal to the people of Bihar to step out and vote and not forget their right to do so.” After casting his vote in Patna, Tejashwi Yadav, the RJD’s chief ministerial candidate, expressed confidence in a change of government. He stated, “On 14 November, a new government will be formed,” signaling optimism for a Mahagathbandhan victory in the first phase results. Focus on Employment and Development RJD leader Rohini Acharya highlighted the elections as a reflection of the struggles of unemployed citizens and labourers in Bihar’s rural areas. She urged voters to consider replacing the current “double engine” government with an administration committed to creating jobs and supporting local communities. Bihar Phase 1 Voting: CM Nitish Kumar votes in Bakhtiyarpur, urges voters to ‘exercise rights’ The focus on employment, social welfare, and governance issues remains a key theme in voter discussions across Bihar. While political rhetoric continues, citizens are showing a steady turnout, demonstrating their active participation in shaping the state’s future. Looking Ahead The first phase of voting is scheduled for today, with the second phase set for 11 November. The results for the high-stakes elections will be declared on 14 November. Bihar’s 243 assembly constituencies are witnessing a closely contested battle between the BJP–JD(U)-led NDA and the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan following alliance shifts by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.