Bihar’s first phase of polling on November 6 saw a record 64.66% voter turnout across 121 constituencies in 18 districts, the highest ever for any phase in the state’s assembly election history. Districts like Begusarai and Gopalganj recorded over 65%, with women voters turning out in remarkable numbers. The Election Commission described the polling as “festive and peaceful,” though a few stray incidents, including an attack on a CPM MLA’s convoy in Saran, were reported.

The high participation has triggered a familiar debate; does a large turnout mean anti-incumbency or pro-incumbency? Analysts remain divided. While conventional wisdom often interprets high voting as a sign of anger against the ruling dispensation, data from past Indian elections tells a different story. Studies show no c

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