Patna: Bihar has scripted a remarkable chapter in its democratic journey as women voters outshone men in record numbers during the ongoing Assembly elections — marking a powerful statement of participation and empowerment. According to fresh data from the Election Commission of India (ECI), the overall voter turnout stood at an impressive 66.91 percent, the highest recorded since 1951, with women leading the charge.
In both phases of polling, women demonstrated unprecedented enthusiasm. The ECI reported that 71.6 percent of women exercised their right to vote, compared to 62.8 percent of men, creating a significant nine-point gap — the widest gender turnout difference ever seen in the state.
The trend was visible across both phases: in the first phase on November 6, women turnout was 69.04 percent, while men registered 61.56 percent. The second phase saw an even bigger surge, with 74.03 percent of women voting compared to 64.1 percent of men.
The surge in women’s participation highlights a steady transformation in Bihar’s political narrative — one where women’s voices are becoming central to shaping the state’s governance. In the 2015 Assembly elections, female turnout was 60.48 percent, a modest improvement from earlier years when male voters consistently dominated the polls.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, while addressing the media, lauded the women of Bihar for their “unwavering faith in democracy.” He said, “Their participation has strengthened the democratic fabric of Bihar and set an inspiring example for the nation.”
This year’s elections also saw a 9.6 percent higher turnout compared to the 2020 polls, underscoring the growing enthusiasm among voters. The second phase alone witnessed a turnout of 68.79 percent, with certain districts such as Katihar (78.84%), Kishanganj (78.15%), and Purnea (76.14%) recording exceptional voter engagement.
The two-phase polling spanned 122 constituencies across nearly 20 districts, with counting of votes scheduled for Friday.
