Bihar Elections 2025: Four Caught Filming EVMs, Voters Advised to Follow Polling Rules

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Patna: Ahead of the second phase of Bihar Assembly elections on 11th November 2025, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has urged voters to strictly adhere to polling rules. This advisory comes after four individuals were booked for taking videos of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and sharing them on social media during the first phase of voting.

According to election officials, the FIRs were filed on 6th November in Arrah, Gopalganj, and Saran districts. In Gopalganj, two individuals were booked, while one each was booked in Arrah and Saran. Officials emphasized that taking pictures or videos of EVMs at polling stations is a serious violation of the Model Code of Conduct and legal provisions.

Guidelines for Voters on Polling Day

• Check Name and Polling Station: Voters should confirm their names and polling stations on the ECI website before heading to the booth.
• Voting Hours: Be aware of the designated voting hours at your polling station.
• Carry Valid ID: Voters must carry a Voter ID (EPIC card) or any other ECI-approved identification such as Aadhaar or PAN card.
• Follow Rules: Follow all instructions at the polling station and wait for your turn patiently.
• VVPAT Verification: After voting, verify your vote on the VVPAT slip. Report any discrepancies immediately to the presiding officer.

What Not to Do at the Polling Station

• No Mobile Phones: Use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited inside the polling station.
• No Selfies or Photography: Taking selfies or using cameras is banned both inside and outside the polling station. Exceptions may exist at designated selfie points outside the restricted area.
• Do Not Impersonate: Attempting to vote as another person is a criminal offense punishable with imprisonment.
• Avoid Political Material: Do not carry symbols or materials of any political party or candidate.
• Avoid Arguments: Refrain from disputes or confrontations at the polling station. In case of any issue, seek help from police or election officials.
• Press Only One Button: While voting, ensure you press only the button of your chosen candidate.

Upcoming Polls and Counting

The second phase of voting in Bihar is scheduled for 11th November 2025, with vote counting on 14th November. The state is witnessing a close contest between the ruling NDA and the Mahagathbandhan, while Prashant Kishor’s Jan Surajya Party is emerging as a third significant contender in this election.