Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, former Chief Minister Rabri Devi, RJD leader and Mahagathbandhan’s chief ministerial face Tejashwi Yadav, and Rajya Sabha MP Misa Bharti cast their votes in Patna on Thursday morning as the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections got underway. The Yadav family appealed to voters, particularly the youth, to turn out in large numbers and bring about “badlaav” (change) through the ballot.
After casting his vote, Tejashwi Yadav expressed confidence in the Mahagathbandhan’s victory, saying the people of Bihar were ready for change. “I appeal to the people of Bihar to cast their votes in large numbers, keeping in mind their present and future. Vote for employment, education, and good healthcare. We are going to win, Bihar is going to win. A new government will be formed on 14 November,” he said, showing his inked finger to the media.
Lalu Prasad Yadav, voting in the first phase of the polls, echoed his son’s sentiment, declaring, “Badlaav hoga (Change will happen).” His statement reinforced the Opposition alliance’s central message of transformation and renewal in the state.
Former Chief Minister Rabri Devi also appealed to voters to come out in strength. “I appeal to women, youth, and everyone to step out and cast their votes. The public will bring about a change,” she said. Extending her wishes to both her sons, Tejashwi and Tej Pratap Yadav, who is contesting separately, she added, “I am their mother. Good luck to both of them. I request people not to forget their right to vote.”
Meanwhile, Misa Bharti urged voters to think about the next generation as they head to the polling stations. “Everyone should cast their votes keeping the future of their children in mind,” she said.
Polling for the first phase covers 121 constituencies across 18 districts, marking the start of the two-phase election that will decide the fate of 243 Assembly seats. More than 7.4 crore voters, including around 14 lakh first-time voters, are eligible to vote.
According to the Election Commission of India, a 13.13% voter turnout was recorded in Bihar till 9 a.m. Polling began at 7 a.m. and will continue until 6 p.m., though voting will close an hour earlier in several constituencies, including, Simri Bakhtiyarpur, Mahishi, Tarapur, Munger, Jamalpur, and parts of Suryagarha, due to security concerns. The second phase of polling will be held on 11 November, with counting scheduled for 14 November.
