The Election Commission of India (ECI) has scheduled the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections in two phases November 6 and November 11 with counting on November 14, 2025. The announcement places Bihar’s 243 seats on a tight constitutional timeline, with the current House term expiring on November 22, 2025. With the schedule now official, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) applies immediately across the state.
ECI’s leadership conducted on-ground reviews in Patna in the run-up to the announcement to examine security, logistics, and enforcement readiness with state officials and stakeholders part of its preparations to deliver a transparent, inducement-free election.
Bihar Assembly Election 2025 Quick summary (vertical table)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Polling dates | Phase 1: 6 November 2025; Phase 2: 11 November 2025. |
| Counting and results | 14 November 2025. |
| Seats at stake | 243-member Bihar Legislative Assembly. |
| Assembly term ends | 22 November 2025. |
| Model Code of Conduct | In force across Bihar following the announcement. |
| Electors and polling stations | Electorate around 7.42 crore; about 90,712 polling stations (as per 2025 roll work). |
| Official sites | Election Commission of India (eci.gov.in); CEO Bihar (ceoelection.bihar.gov.in); Voters’ Services (voters.eci.gov.in). (Election Commission of India) |
Why two phases, and why these dates
Two-phase polling balances security deployment, logistics, and administrative capacity. The schedule also comes after Chhath, Bihar’s biggest homecoming festival, which in 2025 spans October 25–28. This timing typically supports higher participation as many migrant workers are back in the state during that window.
Key numbers and what they mean for voters
- Electorate and stations: Following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) concluded in late September, the ECI reported nearly 7.42 crore electors on Bihar’s rolls. Earlier 2025 ECI notes indicate about 90,712 polling stations across the 243 constituencies figures that frame the scale of logistics, security, and staffing.
- What this means: Expect staggered polling station plans, extensive webcasting at sensitive locations, and a large deployment of personnel and observers to keep queues manageable and compliance tight. (ECI routinely details those operational measures in pre-poll briefings.)
The 2020 baseline: why the contest is closely watched
Bihar’s 2020 election went the distance: the NDA crossed the majority mark with 125 seats BJP 74 and JD(U) 43 while the Mahagathbandhan bloc held 110 RJD 75, Congress 19, and Left parties 16. RJD emerged as the single largest party by seats, but NDA formed the government. The narrow gap and split vote shares are a reminder that granular constituency battles decide Bihar.
What happens between now and counting day
- MCC compliance: With the Code in force, all parties and state entities must follow campaign, advertising, and expenditure rules set out by ECI. Violations can invite swift action.
- Notifications and nominations: ECI will publish phase-wise notifications; candidates will file nominations and affidavits, with scrutiny and withdrawal windows following statutory timelines.
- Roll and booth preparations: Booth-level arrangements, training of polling personnel, and movement of material and security forces will be finalized, including VVPAT deployment and webcasting where mandated.
- Accessibility measures: The Commission typically provides facilities for senior citizens and persons with disabilities; voters should track CEO Bihar and ECI updates for details on home voting, transport assistance, and priority queues (as notified).
Voter checklist: be election-ready
- Verify your name and polling station on the Voters’ Services Portal (also available via the Voter Helpline app). If you moved recently, apply for corrections or address updates as per ECI timelines.
- Know your CEO portal: CEO Bihar hosts localised information, forms, and district contacts.
- Carry valid ID alongside your EPIC.
- Report violations or malpractices via official grievance channels linked from ECI and CEO Bihar sites.
What to watch in the campaign
- Alliances and seat-sharing: Formal announcements by the major alliances typically land soon after the schedule; they can reshape battlegrounds and turnout strategies.
- Turnout drivers: The post-Chhath window, improved booth density, and urban-rural migration patterns will be key.
- Security and enforcement: Expect visible CAPF presence on sensitive routes, videography, and strict action on inducements under the MCC framework.
FAQs
Q1):When are the Bihar Assembly polls and when is counting?
Voting will be held in two phases on November 6 and November 11, 2025. Counting of votes and declaration of results are slated for November 14, 2025.
Q2):How many seats are up for election and when does the present Assembly’s term end?
All 243 seats of the Bihar Legislative Assembly are at stake. The current term ends on November 22, 2025.
Q3):Is the Model Code of Conduct in force now?
Yes. The MCC applies across Bihar from the moment the schedule is announced.
Q4):Why did several parties ask for the poll after Chhath?
Chhath Puja, observed October 25–28 in 2025, is when many Biharis working outside return home. Polling in early November helps maximise participation once the festival concludes.
Q5):How can I check if I am on the rolls and find my polling station?
Use voters.eci.gov.in or the Voter Helpline app to search the electoral roll, locate your booth, and request corrections if needed.
Q6):Where can I follow official updates and instructions?
Rely on the ECI website and CEO Bihar portal for authoritative notices, forms, and helplines.
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