Elections were held on November 6 in six assembly constituencies of Gopalganj district in Bihar as part of the first phase of polling. Voting began at 7 AM and continued until 6 PM across 2,373 polling stations. A total of 18 lakh 12 thousand 326 registered voters exercised their democratic right to choose their representatives. By 5 PM, the district recorded an overall voter turnout of 64.96 percent, indicating strong participation from the electorate. The six constituencies that went to polls were Baikunthpur, Barauli, Gopalganj, Kuchaykot, Bhore, and Hathua. Turnout varied across different seats, with Baikunthpur recording the highest participation at nearly 68 percent, while Bhore registered the lowest at around 61 percent. Security arrangements were comprehensive, with deployment of central armed police forces and state police personnel at every booth. Over 12,000 election staff members were assigned duty to ensure smooth conduct of the democratic exercise. All polling personnel received special training in operating Electronic Voting Machines and VVPAT systems. Sensitive and highly sensitive booths received additional security deployment and monitoring teams. Patrolling units and checkpoints were established throughout the district to prevent any violation of the model code of conduct and maintain law and order during the polling process.
Voting Percentage Across Six Assembly Seats
The six assembly constituencies of Gopalganj district witnessed varying levels of voter participation during the first phase of Bihar elections. Baikunthpur constituency recorded the highest turnout at 67.98 percent, followed closely by Barauli at 66.46 percent. Hathua registered 65.80 percent polling, while Kuchaykot saw 65.53 percent voter participation. The Gopalganj seat itself recorded 63.38 percent turnout by 5 PM. Bhore constituency had the lowest participation rate at 61.05 percent among all six seats. These figures reflected strong democratic engagement from citizens across the district. The voting process remained largely peaceful throughout the day, with officials monitoring the situation continuously. Election authorities set up 2,373 polling stations to accommodate the large number of voters. The registered voter base of over 18 lakh citizens showed their commitment to the democratic process by turning out in significant numbers despite various challenges.
Comprehensive Security Measures Deployed
To ensure free, fair, and peaceful polling, district authorities implemented extensive security arrangements across all six constituencies. Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel were deployed alongside Bihar Police at every polling station to maintain law and order. Special attention was given to sensitive and highly sensitive booths, where additional security forces and monitoring teams were stationed to prevent any irregularities. The security apparatus included multiple layers of protection, with patrolling units conducting regular rounds throughout the district. Checkpoints were established at strategic locations to monitor movement and prevent any violations of the election code of conduct. Officials maintained strict vigil to detect and stop any attempts at malpractice or intimidation of voters. The comprehensive security cover helped create an environment where citizens could exercise their franchise without fear or pressure. These measures proved effective in maintaining peace and ensuring the democratic process proceeded smoothly throughout the day across all polling locations in the district.
Election Staff Training and Preparation
The electoral process in Gopalganj involved meticulous preparation and training of a large workforce. More than 12,000 polling staff members were assigned duty across the 2,373 voting centers in the district. All personnel underwent comprehensive training programs focused on the proper operation of Electronic Voting Machines and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail systems. This training ensured that staff could handle technical aspects efficiently and resolve any issues that might arise during voting. Election officials made sure all necessary materials reached polling teams through dispatch centers well before voting began. These materials included voter lists, writing supplies, security kits, and other essential items required for smooth conduct of elections. The thorough preparation helped minimize technical glitches and procedural errors. Poll workers were briefed on protocols for maintaining voter confidentiality, assisting elderly and differently-abled citizens, and handling emergencies. This careful planning and extensive training of personnel contributed significantly to the orderly and efficient conduct of the electoral exercise across all six assembly constituencies.
Voter Participation in Democratic Process
The first phase of Bihar elections witnessed enthusiastic participation from voters across Gopalganj district. A total of 18 lakh 12 thousand 326 registered voters were eligible to cast their ballots in the six assembly constituencies. Citizens began arriving at polling stations soon after voting commenced at 7 AM. The turnout steadily increased throughout the day, with different age groups and sections of society coming out to exercise their democratic rights. Polling continued uninterrupted until the scheduled closing time of 6 PM. The relatively high turnout percentage of nearly 65 percent by 5 PM demonstrated strong civic awareness and commitment to the electoral process among residents. Voters showed patience while waiting in queues and cooperated with security personnel and election staff. The smooth conduct of polling without major incidents reflected both effective administration and responsible voter behavior. This participation across all six constituencies highlighted the importance citizens attach to choosing their representatives through the ballot box in a democratic framework.
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