Bihar Becomes First State To Have Less Than 1200 Voters In Each Polling Station

Bihar has set a precedent by becoming the first Indian state to ensure all polling stations have fewer than 1,200 voters. This initiative aims to reduce overcrowding and improve voter convenience. The Election Commission has increased the number of polling stations from 77,895 to 90,712 by adding 12,817 new ones across the state.

This change follows the State Instructional Representation (SIR) order issued on June 24, 2025. The order revised the previous limit of 1,500 electors per polling station to 1,200. This model is expected to guide other states and Union Territories in future electoral processes.

Electoral Roll Preparations

In anticipation of the Draft Electoral Rolls publication on August 1, 2025, electoral officers at various levels have engaged in extensive consultations. These discussions involved Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs), District Electoral Officers (DEOs), Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), and Booth Level Officers (BLOs) with representatives from all major political parties.

Efforts are underway to ensure inclusive voter registration. Election authorities have shared lists of 29.62 lakh electors whose application forms are pending and 43.93 lakh electors not found at their registered addresses. Political parties have been urged to work with District Presidents and nearly 1.5 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs) to assist these individuals in updating their records.

Ensuring Comprehensive Voter Lists

The Election Commission is focusing on a "mission mode" approach to prevent any eligible voter from being excluded from the draft electoral rolls. Once published on August 1, the public can submit objections or requests for additions, deletions, or corrections for a month as per the June 24 SIR order provisions.

This collaborative effort between election authorities and political stakeholders aims to strengthen the electoral process and enhance voter accessibility ahead of upcoming elections.