Key Reforms Introduced
- Colour Photographs on EVM Ballots: For the first time, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will display colour photographs of candidates, making voter identification easier and reducing the risk of errors during voting.
- Mobile Phone Deposits: Voters will be required to deposit their mobile phones at designated counters outside polling stations to maintain the sanctity of the voting process and prevent the use of electronic devices inside the booths.
- Booth-Level Official ID Cards: Booth-Level Officers (BLOs) will now carry official identity cards for better recognition and to enhance voter confidence in the election process.
- Full Webcasting at Polling Stations: All polling stations will have live webcasting to ensure transparency and allow real-time monitoring of the voting process.
- Increased Booth Capacity: The number of electors per polling booth has been reduced from 1,500 to 1,200 to minimize congestion and ensure a smoother voting experience.
- Faster Voter ID Delivery: New Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been implemented to ensure that Elector Photo Identity Cards (EPICs) are delivered within 15 days of voter registration.
- Training for Election Personnel: Over 7,000 BLOs and supervisors have been trained at the Indian Institute of Electoral Management (IIIDEM) in New Delhi to enhance their efficiency and effectiveness during the elections.
- Enhanced Remuneration: The remuneration for BLOs, polling and counting staff, and other teams involved in the election process has been doubled to recognize their efforts and encourage greater participation.
Voter List Purification
In a significant move, the Election Commission has completed a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Bihar’s voter list for the first time in 22 years. This exercise aimed to remove inaccuracies and duplication, ensuring a more accurate and reliable electoral roll. The SIR has been widely appreciated by electorates, political parties, and other stakeholders for its thoroughness and transparency.
Upcoming Election Timeline
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar confirmed that the Bihar Assembly elections will be held before November 22, 2025, when the term of the current Legislative Assembly ends. The Election Commission is currently finalizing the dates, taking into account all necessary considerations to ensure a free, fair, and timely election process.
