New Delhi: Bihar recorded a voter turnout of 64.46% in the first phase of polling across 121 assembly seats, marking the highest turnout in the state’s electoral history. Analysts say if the same level of enthusiasm continues in the remaining 122 seats during the second and final phase, it could significantly alter Bihar’s political landscape.
In comparison, the first phase of the 2020 Assembly elections saw only 55.68% polling, which was held across 71 seats in three phases.
Data from 17 assembly elections since independence indicates that whenever voter turnout in Bihar has risen or fallen by more than 5%, it has not only led to a change in power but also marked a shift in the state’s political era.
However, political experts remain divided. While three out of four analysts believe that the current turnout may not directly affect who comes to power, they agree that it could lead to a major shift in Bihar’s political dynamics.
