Patna, Nov 14 (NationPress) The race for the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections has reached a crucial juncture on Friday as the counting of votes, which commenced at 8 a.m. at all polling stations across the state, is progressing steadily and peacefully towards a conclusion.

With stringent security measures in place, including a substantial presence of personnel and strict adherence to Election Commission (EC) guidelines, this day will be pivotal in determining the governance of Bihar for the upcoming five years.

Voting commenced with the counting of postal ballots at 8 a.m., followed by the opening of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) half an hour later.

According to officials from the EC, a clearer picture of the results is anticipated by noon.

Results from all 243 Assembly constituencies will be disclosed in phases to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted process.

A robust three-tier security framework has been established at the 46 counting centers throughout Bihar.

The Central paramilitary forces oversee the inner layer of security, while the Bihar Military Police (BMP) manage the middle layer, and district police handle security on the outer perimeter. The use of mobile phones, calculators, cameras, and all electronic devices is strictly prohibited within the counting halls. Each counting station is monitored by micro observers, counting supervisors, and assistants.

Inside each counting hall, 15 tables have been arranged—14 for EVM counting and one designated for special purposes under the Assistant Returning Officer. A separate table has also been allocated exclusively for postal ballots.

The Commission has emphasized that the entire counting process will be conducted transparently, fairly, and without intimidation.

A total of 243 counting observers have been assigned, one for each constituency, to supervise the proceedings.

The district administration has put in place comprehensive measures for managing crowds and ensuring security.

With thousands of election officials, candidates, representatives, and security personnel present at the counting centers, authorities are maintaining strict oversight on traffic control, power supply, firefighting systems, medical assistance, and sanitation.

Special barricades have been erected to prevent overcrowding and avert any unforeseen incidents. Security has also been intensified around the residence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in Patna.

Additional BMP-1 Gorkha battalions have been deployed as a precautionary measure. Surveillance around the premises has been enhanced, with more personnel assigned to uphold a stringent security cordon.

The Election Commission has confirmed that all candidates were duly notified in advance about the date, time, and venue of the counting, in accordance with the Election Rules of 1961.

Officials have been instructed to uphold absolute integrity and ensure that no malpractice or irregularities occur.

As the counting process unfolds, early trends are expected to surface shortly from various centers.

Political parties and their supporters are closely monitoring these early indicators, which often influence the overall outcome.

In this environment of heightened security and vigilance, today is crucial for the political landscape of Bihar. By evening, the people's mandate will become evident, revealing their choice of representation.