Is CEC Gyanesh Kumar Visiting Bihar on October 4-5 for Election Review?
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Synopsis
As CEC Gyanesh Kumar prepares for his crucial visit to Bihar on October 4-5, the state's election readiness is under scrutiny. This visit comes on the heels of the final electoral roll release, marking a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the Assembly elections. What does this mean for voters and the political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- CEC Gyanesh Kumar visits Bihar on October 4-5 for election review.
- Final electoral roll based on SIR to be published on September 30.
- Election dates announcement expected in early October.
- Opposition criticism over voter roll revision.
- Festive season poses logistical challenges for elections.
New Delhi, Sep 27 (NationPress) Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, accompanied by Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, is set to visit Bihar on October 4 and 5 to evaluate the state's readiness for the forthcoming Assembly elections, as reported by officials on Saturday.
This high-profile visit comes shortly after the release of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)-based final electoral roll, which is slated for publication on September 30.
The current term of the 243-member Bihar Assembly concludes on November 22, making the elections in this politically crucial state imminent.
Officials indicate that the Election Commission (EC) team will conduct consultations with senior state officials to assess administrative, security, and logistical preparations for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
Typically, it is standard procedure for the electoral authority to visit a state to gauge ground readiness prior to unveiling the election timetable.
Speculation is growing that once the EC team returns to Delhi after its visit to Bihar, an official announcement regarding the Assembly elections may follow within days.
The SIR of the voter list, which is being conducted in Bihar for the first time in over two decades, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition factions.
They argue that this process could disenfranchise millions of legitimate voters.
Nevertheless, the Commission has dismissed these claims, emphasizing that the revision is intended to enhance accuracy.
Historically, the poll panel is anticipated to execute the elections in three to four phases, although the precise number will be influenced by security and logistical factors.
The situation is further complicated by the upcoming festive season, with Diwali and Chhath occurring during this timeframe, necessitating careful planning to ensure minimal disruption for voters.
In the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, voting occurred in three phases on October 28, November 3, and November 7, with results released on November 10.
In contrast, the 2015 elections were conducted over five phases from October 12 to November 5.
Meanwhile, the 2010 elections took place in six phases, starting on October 21 and concluding on November 20.
In February 2005, Bihar experienced a three-phase election, followed by another three-phase election later that year in October.
The CEC's visit indicates that the announcement of election dates is on the horizon, likely in early October.
Point of View
I emphasize that the upcoming visit of CEC Gyanesh Kumar holds substantial importance for Bihar's electoral process. It's essential for the Election Commission to ensure a transparent and efficient election, maintaining the trust of citizens. The scrutiny surrounding the electoral roll revision highlights the need for accurate representation and safeguarding voter rights across the nation.
NationPress
27/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of CEC Gyanesh Kumar's visit to Bihar?
The visit aims to assess the preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections in Bihar, focusing on administrative, security, and logistical arrangements.
When will the final electoral roll be published?
The final electoral roll, based on the Special Intensive Revision, is set to be published on September 30.
How many phases are expected for the Bihar Assembly elections?
Based on past trends, the elections are likely to be conducted in three to four phases, depending on security and logistical considerations.
What criticisms have arisen regarding the electoral roll revision?
Opposition parties have criticized the revision, alleging it could disenfranchise millions of genuine voters, though the Election Commission has defended the process as necessary for accuracy.
What is the significance of the upcoming festive season for the elections?
The festive season, with Diwali and Chhath coinciding with the election period, requires careful planning to ensure minimal disruption for voters.
