What Do Bihar Voters Expect from Their Next Government?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Voters prioritize safety and education.
- High voter turnout reflects civic engagement.
- Infrastructure development is well-received.
- First-time voters express excitement.
- Major parties contesting include NDA and Grand Alliance.
Patna, Nov 11 (NationPress) As the second and final phase of the Bihar Assembly elections unfolds, voters are expressing their hopes for the upcoming government. Many are also pleased with the current administration's efforts.
Interviews conducted by IANS with voters from various districts revealed their aspirations. One voter remarked, “We desire a government that can ensure our safety, focus on education statewide, and enhance employment opportunities.”
Another voter stated, “We are casting our votes for progress. The existing government is performing well for us. I encourage new voters to step up and utilize their voting rights.”
Yet another voter added, “Our hope for the next government is to foster positive change and place greater emphasis on enhancing education. There's a pressing need for advancement and innovative ideas.”
In Bhagalpur, a voter expressed satisfaction, saying, “Yes, I feel very content. I am proud to exercise my right to vote.”
In Bagaha, another voter shared, “I have cast my vote. Previously, I voted for development, and I will continue to do so. The government’s current initiatives — building hospitals in Bagaha and constructing bridges — instill hope within us.”
In Laukaha, a first-time voter conveyed excitement, stating, “I was thrilled to vote for the first time.”
Meanwhile, voting is proceeding smoothly across 122 Assembly seats in 20 districts during this second phase of the elections, which commenced at 7 a.m. on Tuesday.
The Election Commission reports that 31.38 percent of votes were cast by 11 a.m. In the initial four hours, Kishanganj noted the highest voter turnout at 34.74 percent, while Madhubani recorded 28.66 percent voting.
According to the Election Commission of India, voter turnout was 32.39 percent in West Champaran, 31.16 percent in East Champaran, 31.58 percent in Sheohar, 29.81 percent in Sitamarhi, 28.66 percent in Madhubani, 31.69 percent in Supaul, 31.88 percent in Araria, 34.74 percent in Kishanganj, 32.94 percent in Purnia, 30.83 percent in Katihar, and 29.08 percent in Bhagalpur.
Additionally, 32.91 percent of voting was registered in Banka, 31.98 percent in Kaimur, 29.80 percent in Rohtas, 31.07 percent in Arwal, 30.36 percent in Jehanabad, 32.88 percent in Aurangabad, 34.07 percent in Gaya, 29.02 percent in Nawada, and 33.69 percent in Jamui.
In this phase, over 3.7 crore voters will influence the political destiny of 1,302 candidates. The first phase earlier recorded a 27.65 percent turnout by 11 a.m. This second phase will reveal the fortunes of numerous key leaders from both the NDA and the Grand Alliance.
A total of 45,399 polling stations have been established, including 5,326 in urban regions and 40,073 in rural areas. In this round, 122 candidates from the NDA and 127 from the Grand Alliance are competing.