Patna/New Delhi, Oct 9: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has mobilized an extensive force of nearly 8.5 lakh officials across Bihar to ensure the smooth conduct of the upcoming Assembly elections scheduled for November 6 and 11. Results will be declared on November 14.
According to senior officials, the deployment covers every level of election management—from polling and counting staff to police, observers, and auxiliary workers. “The Commission has made comprehensive arrangements to maintain transparency, security, and efficiency throughout the election process,” an ECI source noted.
Of the total personnel, about 4.53 lakh are polling staff, supported by 2.5 lakh police officials and 28,370 counting personnel. Additionally, 17,875 micro observers, 9,625 sector officers, 4,840 micro observers for counting, and 90,712 anganwadi sevikas have been assigned to assist in field operations.
For the first time, the ECI has appointed one general observer for each of Bihar’s 243 constituencies. These observers will function as the “eyes and ears” of the Commission, closely monitoring all election-related activities. “The observers will remain stationed in their respective constituencies and will meet political parties and candidates regularly to address their concerns,” a senior official mentioned.
In addition, 38 police observers and 67 expenditure observers have been deputed to oversee law and order and monitor campaign spending.
To maintain security, 500 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)—including personnel from the CRPF, SSB, and CISF—have already been deployed across Bihar for pre-poll duties. Sources said that the total deployment of CAPF units is expected to rise to around 1,200 companies once polling begins.
The ECI has also strengthened its voter support mechanisms. Nearly 90,712 booth-level officers (BLOs) and 243 Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) will be available to assist voters through the “Book-a-Call to BLO” facility on the ECINet App. Citizens can also reach out to the helpline number 1950 (with the local STD code) to register complaints or raise queries at the district or constituency level.
“All personnel engaged in election duties will be treated as being on deputation to the Election Commission under Section 28A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951,” an official circular stated.
The Commission said these measures are aimed at ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and efficient election process across Bihar’s 243 constituencies.
