What Preparations are Being Made for the Bihar Polls?
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Synopsis
As the Bihar assembly elections approach, the Election Commission is ramping up preparations with the deployment of 8.5 lakh election officials. This comprehensive strategy aims to ensure a smooth electoral process, catering to the needs of senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Key Takeaways
- 8.5 lakh election officials are set to ensure smooth elections.
- Special provisions for elderly voters and persons with disabilities.
- Comprehensive deployment of polling and police personnel.
- Observers will monitor 243 constituencies.
- Voter complaints can be registered through a dedicated call center.
New Delhi, Oct 9 (NationPress) Just three days after the Election Commission unveiled the timeline for the Bihar assembly elections as well as bye-elections for eight assembly seats across six states and Jammu & Kashmir, extensive preparations are in motion to guarantee the efficient execution of these elections.
The most recent press release from the ECI on Thursday states, "To facilitate the smooth and organized advancement of the various phases of elections in Bihar, approximately 8.5 lakh election officials have been assigned."
"The personnel set for deployment comprise nearly 4.53 lakh Polling Personnel, 2.5 lakh Police Officials, 28,370 Counting Personnel, 17,875 Micro Observers, 9,625 Sector Officers, 4,840 Micro Observers for counting, and around 90,712 Anganwadi Sevikas may also be included," the ECI detailed in its press announcement.
Voters can access the election machinery, which includes 90,712 BLOs and 243 EROs, through a phone call as well as the Book-a-call to BLO service available on the ECINet App.
"A call center number +91 (STD Code) 1950 is also at hand for lodging any complaints or queries at the DEO/RO level," it added.
The commission further clarified that all personnel deployed will be considered on deputation to the Election Commission, as specified in Section 28A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
"Initially, one General Observer has been assigned to each of the 243 Constituencies in Bihar to act as the Commission's eyes and ears," it reported.
Additionally, 38 Police Observers and 67 Expenditure Observers have also been dispatched.
As per the poll panel, the Observers will remain stationed in their designated Constituencies and will frequently meet with political parties and candidates to address their issues.
Moreover, the ECI announced on Wednesday that senior voters aged over 85 years, individuals with benchmark disabilities (PwDs), and service voters will have the opportunity to cast their votes via postal ballots in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
This provision will be available under Section 60(c) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Point of View
I believe that the rigorous preparations by the Election Commission exemplify their commitment to upholding the democratic process. Ensuring that every eligible voter can participate is paramount, and the measures in place reflect an authoritative approach to managing elections, advocating for inclusivity and accessibility.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many election officials are being deployed for the Bihar elections?
Approximately 8.5 lakh election officials are being deployed for the Bihar elections.
What provisions are made for elderly voters?
Elderly voters above 85 years, persons with benchmark disabilities, and service voters can cast their votes via postal ballots in the upcoming elections.
What is the role of Observers during the elections?
Observers will be stationed in their respective constituencies to monitor the elections, meet with political parties and candidates, and address concerns.
How can voters register complaints?
Voters can register complaints by calling the designated call center number +91 (STD Code) 1950.
What is the significance of Section 28A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951?
Section 28A allows the personnel deployed for elections to be considered on deputation to the Election Commission.
