As the polling for the Bihar Assembly elections 2025 is getting closer, the state is witnessing intense campaigning by all political parties.
Bihar is witnessing a direct fight between the ruling NDA alliance, led by the BJP and JD(U), and the Mahagathbandhan, led by Congress and RJD. Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party is also expected to emerge as a third force in Bihar’s electoral battle in 2025.
This timeBihar’s 14 lakh first-time voters will play a crucial role in Bihar’s poll outcome.
First-time voters always look forward to polling day, and the Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken a number of steps to ensure a seamless voting experience for them.
For first-time voters, it’s important to know the entire polling process and ECI guidelines to avoid any disruption in exercising their democratic right.
As a first-time voter, one must first register to vote on the Election Commission’s (EC) website. This entails using the voters’ service portal to fill out Form 6 online.
After entering all required information, you can locate the polling booth as per your residential area.
Here are a few important factors to keep in mind on the polling day:
Dos at the polling station
- It’s advisable to confirm your name and polling station on the voter list before reaching the polling booth. You can check the electoral roll and the polling booth list on the ECI website.
- Know the voting hours at your polling station.
- Carry relevant documents like the Voter ID before leaving for the polling station. If you don’t have a Voter ID, you can also use other identity documents approved by the ECI for voting.
- Follow the restrictions and rules at the polling station and wait for your turn to vote.
- After casting your vote, verify the VVPAT machine’s output linked to the EVM. In case of any inconsistencies, you can report to the presiding officer.
Don’t at the polling station
- It’s important to know that the polling station is a restricted area and violation of any rule may attract punitive action by the police.
- Do not use your mobile phone in the polling station.
- Taking selfies and the use of a camera are also prohibited. After casting your vote, avoid taking photos within the restricted area.
- Don’t impersonate another voter. It’s a criminal offence and may lead to imprisonment.
- Don’t bring any material resembling any political party or leader’s symbol to the polling station.
- Avoid indulging in any argument or fight with anyone at the polling station. It’s advisable to seek the help of the police or election officers in case of any difficulty.
- Show your EPIC-Voter ID card at the polling booth, follow the rules, and don’t try to press more than one button while voting.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)