NDA surges past 190 seats, AIMIM holds four
AIMIM is currently leading in Baisi, Jokihat, Kochadhaman and Amour, giving the party a strong early boost.
Patna: Counting of votes for the Bihar Assembly Election 2025 began at 8 am on Friday, November 14, kicking off one of the most closely watched political days in the state. Early trends indicate a strong showing for the NDA, led by the BJP, which is currently ahead in over 190 seats. Meanwhile, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has gained momentum in Baisi, Jokihat, Kochadhaman and Amour, giving the party a promising start in the initial rounds of counting.
A senior officer overseeing the arrangements said that an adequate number of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel, along with Bihar Police units, have been deployed across all counting centres. Their primary task is to maintain law and order, ensure the counting process runs smoothly and prevent any incident that could disrupt the election outcome. “Security has been strengthened in every district to make sure the counting concludes peacefully,” the officer added.
This year’s elections were conducted in two phases, on November 6 and November 11, for all 243 assembly constituencies. Bihar recorded a historic voter turnout of 67.13 per cent, one of the highest in the state’s electoral history. Officials noted that the turnout reflects a heightened sense of political engagement among citizens. With 7.45 crore eligible voters, the stakes remain high as they decide the fate of 2,616 candidates contesting across the state.
Heavy Security Deployment Across Bihar
In preparation for the counting day, authorities have left no room for error. The officer confirmed that 106 companies of security personnel from outside Bihar have also been stationed in various parts of the state to support local forces. These reinforcements aim to strengthen the security network and swiftly manage any situation that may arise during the counting.
Ahead of the results, a senior poll official explained the stringent safeguards followed for securing the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs). All machines used in the two-phase election were placed inside strong rooms under a double-lock system, which involves the presence of officials from both the Election Commission and the district administration.
“We have ensured a two-tier security arrangement at every counting centre,” the official said. Additionally, there is 24/7 CCTV monitoring, along with other security measures, to ensure complete transparency and protection of the machines.”
With counting underway, anticipation is building across Bihar, with political parties closely monitoring every update. For the NDA, the early lead reinforces confidence in its campaign outreach, messaging and leadership in the state. On the other hand, AIMIM’s early gains indicate pockets of strong support in regions where it has been gradually expanding its presence.
As the day progresses and more rounds of counting are completed, a clearer picture will emerge regarding which party or alliance is likely to form the next government. With such a high turnout and heavy security arrangement, officials are hopeful of a smooth and transparent conclusion to one of Bihar’s most significant electoral battles in recent years.