Voting for the first phase of assembly elections in Sheikhpura district concluded on November 6, 2025. The polling process began at 7 AM and continued until 6 PM across two assembly constituencies in the district. By 5 PM, the district recorded an overall voter turnout of 52.36%. The Sheikhpura constituency saw 53.08% voting, while Barbigha recorded 51.54% turnout. A total of 582 polling stations were set up across both constituencies for the election. The district administration had made elaborate security arrangements to ensure free and fair polling. Central paramilitary forces were deployed at all booths to maintain law and order. Out of the total 18,12,326 registered voters in the district, lakhs exercised their franchise to choose their representatives. The election was conducted across six assembly areas within Sheikhpura district. However, the polling day was not without controversy. Reports emerged from Barbigha constituency about money being distributed to influence voters. Allegations surfaced that cash was being handed out to voters to cast their ballots in favor of a particular party symbol. Such incidents raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in certain areas. The district election machinery had prepared extensively for smooth conduct of polls, setting up necessary infrastructure and deploying sufficient staff at all polling stations to facilitate the democratic exercise.
Voter Turnout Across Two Assembly Seats
The first phase of voting in Sheikhpura district covered two main assembly constituencies. By 5 PM on polling day, the Sheikhpura assembly seat had recorded a turnout of 53.08%, while the neighboring Barbigha constituency registered 51.54% voting. The overall district average stood at 52.36% by evening. Polling began promptly at 7 AM across all 582 polling stations and continued without major interruptions until the scheduled closing time of 6 PM. The district has a total of 18,12,326 registered voters who were eligible to participate in this democratic exercise. Six assembly areas within the district were part of this voting phase. The election machinery ensured that adequate facilities were available at all booths, including proper lighting, drinking water, and accessibility features for elderly and differently-abled voters. Officials monitored the process throughout the day to address any issues that arose during voting hours.
Tight Security Arrangements at Polling Stations
The district administration had implemented comprehensive security measures to ensure peaceful and fair elections across Sheikhpura. Central paramilitary forces were deployed at all 582 polling stations spread across the two constituencies. This deployment was part of the strategy to create a fear-free environment for voters and prevent any untoward incidents. The administration had adopted a strict approach to maintaining law and order during the polling process. Security personnel were positioned both inside and outside polling booths to monitor activities and respond quickly to any security concerns. The presence of central forces was particularly important given the sensitive nature of elections in the region. Officials had prepared detailed security plans well in advance, identifying vulnerable areas and deploying additional forces where necessary. The tight security arrangements reflected the government's commitment to conducting free and fair elections. Surveillance mechanisms were also in place to detect and prevent any attempts at electoral malpractice or violence during the voting period.
Money Distribution Allegations in Barbigha
Serious allegations emerged from Barbigha constituency regarding attempts to influence voters through cash distribution. Reports indicated that money was being distributed to voters with instructions to cast their ballots for a specific party symbol, identified as the arrow symbol. Such practices represent a direct violation of election laws and the model code of conduct. The allegations raised questions about the fairness of the electoral process in certain pockets of the constituency. If proven true, these incidents would constitute a serious breach of electoral norms designed to ensure that voting remains free from undue influence. The distribution of cash to sway voter decisions undermines the democratic principle of free and fair choice. Election authorities are expected to investigate such complaints thoroughly and take appropriate action against those found guilty. The presence of such allegations during polling highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining the purity of the electoral process. Voters are legally protected from such inducements, and mechanisms exist to report and address such violations.
Electoral Preparations and Infrastructure
The election machinery in Sheikhpura district had made extensive preparations for conducting the first phase of polling. A total of 582 polling stations were established across the Sheikhpura and Barbigha assembly constituencies to accommodate the large number of voters. Each polling station was equipped with necessary voting equipment, including electronic voting machines and other required materials. The district administration had deployed adequate staff at all locations to manage the voting process efficiently. Training programs were conducted for polling officers and other personnel to ensure they understood their responsibilities and could handle various situations that might arise during voting. The infrastructure setup included proper seating arrangements, separate queues for men and women, and facilities for senior citizens. Arrangements were also made for voters with disabilities to ensure their participation. The administration coordinated with various departments to ensure smooth conduct of elections, from transportation of voting machines to managing crowds at busy polling stations. This comprehensive planning aimed to provide a hassle-free voting experience for all eligible voters in the district.
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