India's Election Commission met with 12 recognized political parties on Saturday in Patna to discuss Bihar Assembly elections. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar led the discussions and pledged to review all party recommendations before setting the polling timeline.
The ruling Janata Dal (United) requested single-phase voting for the state. Party working president Sanjay Jha cited improved law enforcement and reduced Naxal activity as reasons Bihar could follow Maharashtra's single-phase model. He emphasized deploying paramilitary personnel at every polling location and scheduling votes around the Chhath festival.
Opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal demanded two-phase polling through representatives Abhay Kushwaha and Chitranjan Gagan. The party sought transparency regarding 364,000 voters removed from rolls and enhanced security for marginalized communities. Kushwaha dismissed concerns about voter verification as political maneuvering.
Political analysts expect the commission to announce dates soon for the multi-phase elections. The consultations represent a major advancement in preparing for the state's high-stakes electoral contest.
The ruling Janata Dal (United) requested single-phase voting for the state. Party working president Sanjay Jha cited improved law enforcement and reduced Naxal activity as reasons Bihar could follow Maharashtra's single-phase model. He emphasized deploying paramilitary personnel at every polling location and scheduling votes around the Chhath festival.
Opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal demanded two-phase polling through representatives Abhay Kushwaha and Chitranjan Gagan. The party sought transparency regarding 364,000 voters removed from rolls and enhanced security for marginalized communities. Kushwaha dismissed concerns about voter verification as political maneuvering.
Political analysts expect the commission to announce dates soon for the multi-phase elections. The consultations represent a major advancement in preparing for the state's high-stakes electoral contest.
