What Massive Security and Logistics Plan Does ECI Have for Bihar Assembly Polls?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bihar Assembly elections scheduled for November 6 and 11.
- 90,712 polling stations established for voter accessibility.
- Special focus on security and law enforcement.
- Inclusivity measures for youth and marginalized groups.
- Commitment to a peaceful electoral process.
New Delhi, Oct 6 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Monday that the Bihar Assembly elections will take place in two phases: on November 6 and November 11, with the results slated for release on November 14.
During a media briefing, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alongside Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, referred to these elections as the “mother of all elections”, highlighting the commission's dedication to delivering a peaceful and impeccable electoral experience.
“We aim to assure voters in Bihar that the elections will not only be exemplary and seamless but also the most tranquil due to our special emphasis on law and order,” Kumar stated.
The Bihar Legislative Assembly consists of 243 constituencies, which include 203 General, 38 Scheduled Caste (SC), and 2 Scheduled Tribe (ST) seats.
The state's voter demographic is extensive.
As of September 30, 2025, Bihar has approximately 7.43 crore registered voters.
Out of this, around 3.92 crore are male electors.
There is a considerable youth demographic, with over 1.63 crore voters aged 20-29 and 14.01 lakh first-time voters aged 18-19.
Participation from special groups is notable, including 4.04 lakh senior citizens aged 85 and above, about 14,000 centenarians, and 7.2 lakh persons with disabilities (PwDs).
Additionally, nearly 1.63 lakh service electors are registered, typically comprising government employees or personnel stationed away from their home constituencies.
To handle the anticipated 'massive voter turnout', the ECI has established 90,712 polling stations throughout Bihar—13,911 in urban areas and 76,801 in rural areas.
All polling stations are equipped with 100 percent webcasting facilities to ensure transparency and effective monitoring.
Special polling stations, known as Model Polling Stations, have been designated (1,350), with several managed by women (1,044), youth (38), and PwDs (292), showcasing the commission's commitment to inclusive participation.
Given Bihar's diverse geography, innovative security and logistical strategies have been implemented.
In the Diara region, patrolling teams will use horses to cover approximately 250 polling stations.
Similarly, boat patrols will secure around 197 stations located in riverine or waterlogged areas.
With Bihar's elections frequently drawing intense political competition and substantial voter engagement, the ECI has underscored its concentrated focus on maintaining law and order to avert any adverse incidents.
Chief Election Commissioner Kumar assured citizens that all necessary precautions have been taken to uphold peace and foster an environment conducive to free and fair elections.