Bihar Assembly Elections 2025: Over 13 Lakh First-Time Voters Apply as Voter List Revision Gains Momentum
Patna | August 26, 2025 – Preparations for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections have entered a crucial phase, with the Election Commission of India (ECI) reporting a surge in applications during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The latest figures highlight a strong wave of participation, particularly from first-time voters, indicating growing enthusiasm among the youth to take part in the democratic process.
2.27 Lakh Claims and Objections Filed
According to official data, a total of 2,27,636 voters have filed claims and objections against entries in the draft voter list so far. Among these:
- 29,872 applications were filed for the inclusion of names.
- 1,97,764 applications sought exclusion of names from the voter rolls.
In the past seven days alone, the Commission has disposed of 33,771 applications, reflecting the speed at which the process is being streamlined.
First-Time Voters Show Encouraging Signs
The most remarkable trend has been the participation of young voters. In August alone, 13,33,793 youth above the age of 18 submitted Form-6 applications to enroll their names in the electoral rolls.
An ECI official described this as a "highly encouraging sign," pointing out that if approved, over 13 lakh new names could be added to Bihar’s voter list this year. The Commission has already processed 61,248 applications in the past week, underscoring the momentum in the revision exercise.
Role of Booth Level Agents (BLAs)
The report also highlighted the proactive role of Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by political parties to assist voters in corrections and new registrations.
Currently, 1,60,813 BLAs from 12 political parties are actively engaged across Bihar. Among them:
- CPI(ML) BLAs filed the maximum 118 claims and objections, including 15 for inclusion and 103 for exclusion.
- RJD agents submitted 10 forms till Saturday.
Officials say such interventions by party agents, combined with voter awareness, are ensuring that the revision process remains transparent and error-free.
Past Deletions and Current Drive
This is not the first large-scale revision drive in the state. Earlier, nearly 65 lakh names were deleted from electoral rolls during similar special exercises to remove ineligible or duplicate entries. The Commission maintains that these efforts are aimed at creating a more accurate and reliable voter list ahead of elections.
Deadline for Filing Applications
The ECI has set August 31 as the final date for filing claims and objections. After scrutiny and verification, the final electoral roll will be published, paving the way for the election process.
Final Perspective
With over 13 lakh first-time voters stepping forward, Bihar’s electoral landscape is set for a significant transformation in the upcoming assembly elections. The proactive participation of youth, the involvement of political parties through BLAs, and the Commission’s transparent approach in revising the rolls suggest a highly competitive and participatory election season.