Is the CEC's Visit to Patna a Sign of Upcoming Bihar Assembly Polls?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- CEC Gyanesh Kumar's visit indicates imminent election announcements.
- The final voter list will be available on September 30.
- Expectations of elections in three to four phases.
- New EVMs to feature photos of candidates for transparency.
- Upcoming festivals create planning challenges for elections.
Patna, Sep 22 (NationPress) The atmosphere surrounding the Bihar Assembly elections is increasingly charged as the Election Commission of India (ECI) prepares for crucial actions.
Speculation regarding the announcement of election dates is growing, especially with the confirmation that Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar will be in Patna during the last week of September to assess the state's readiness.
The ECI plans to release the final voter list on September 30, after which the schedule for elections could be revealed at any point.
During his visit, the CEC will conduct a comprehensive review meeting with election officials to evaluate administrative setups, management of the voter list, and logistical readiness.
Initially, the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will display color photographs of candidates alongside their party symbols, aimed at boosting transparency and aiding voters in identifying their candidates more effectively.
Based on historical patterns, the Commission is anticipated to organize the elections in three to four phases, although the precise number will be influenced by security and logistical factors.
This complexity is heightened by the upcoming festive season, with Diwali and Chhath falling during the same timeframe, necessitating meticulous planning to prevent disruptions for voters.
In the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, the voting occurred in three phases – October 28, November 3, and November 7 – with results declared on November 10.
In 2015, elections were conducted over five phases from October 12 to November 5.
In 2010, the elections took place in six phases, beginning on October 21 and concluding on November 20.
In February 2005, Bihar experienced a three-phase election, followed by another three-phase election in October of the same year.
The CEC's visit indicates that the announcement of election dates is on the horizon, likely to occur in early October.
With Bihar's political environment already vibrant—parties solidifying alliances, seat-sharing agreements, and campaign strategies—this development is expected to further amplify the election atmosphere.