Bihar Assembly elections are witnessing strong voter engagement in the second phase, with a turnout of 47.62% recorded by 1 p.m. on Tuesday. This figure surpasses the 42.31% turnout noted at the same time during the first phase. The Election Commission of India reported that Kishanganj led the districts with a turnout of 51.86%, while Madhubani had the lowest at 43.39%. Other districts showing significant participation include Gaya (50.95%), Jamui (50.91%), and Aurangabad (49.45%).

Polling commenced at 7 a.m. across 122 constituencies in 20 districts, with approximately 3.7 crore voters eligible to cast their votes. This phase is crucial as it will determine the fate of 1,302 candidates, including 12 ministers from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Cabinet. Among the candidates are JD(U) leaders like Vijendra Yadav and Renu Devi from the BJP.

The NDA, which includes the BJP and JD(U), is vying for a second consecutive term, while the opposition alliance, Mahagathbandhan, aims for a comeback. In the previous Assembly elections, the NDA secured 66 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan won 49.

The first phase of polling had set a record with a turnout of 65.08%, the highest in Bihar's history. Vote counting for both phases is scheduled for November 14. Additionally, bye-elections are taking place in eight Assembly constituencies across six states and one Union Territory, with varying turnout rates reported in those areas as well.