Bihar Leads the Way with Historic Mobile Phone-Based E-Voting

Bihar has carved its name in history as the first state to implement mobile phone-based e-voting during local body elections. According to the State Election Commissioner Deepak Prasad, a remarkable 70.20% of eligible voters used the e-voting system, with 54.63% opting to cast their votes at physical polling booths.

In a landmark move, Bibha Kumari from Pakridayal in East Champaran district became the first citizen in India to vote using a mobile phone in a local election. The State Election Commission hailed this as a 'symbol of convenience, security, and empowered participation.'

Covering 489 booths, the elections saw a total voter turnout of 62.41%. Prasad noted that the e-voting system targets increasing voter turnout by catering to elders, disabled individuals, pregnant women, and migrants. Accessible only to pre-registered users, this initiative marks a significant step towards inclusive voting.

(With inputs from agencies.)