In preparation for the upcoming 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, a high-level review meeting was convened under the leadership of Bihar’s Chief Secretary, Amrit Lal Meena. The meeting, conducted via video conferencing in the old secretariat’s assembly hall, focused on vital aspects of the election and the distribution of essential guidelines.
Attendees included Director General of Police Vinay Kumar, Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Singh Gunjiayal, Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department Arvind Kumar Chaudhary, Divisional Commissioner of Magadh, and various senior officials including District Magistrates and Police Superintendents from the concerned districts. District Magistrates/Police Superintendents from Arwal, Nawada, Aurangabad, Jehanabad, and Gaya provided updates on their election preparedness.
Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Singh Gunjiayal issued several important directives. He stipulated that one polling booth would be established for every 1200 voters. He instructed the staff to complete data entry into the election software in a timely manner. Furthermore, he directed that applications be processed efficiently, shadow zones be identified and communication plans be developed, and adequate transportation be arranged.
A key focus was placed on the recovery of illegal weapons and ammunition. Gunjiayal clarified that booth relocation should generally be avoided, with the preference being to establish additional booths at the same locations. He also instructed that the Forest Department be coordinated with to conduct ongoing raids in border areas and that coordination with relevant departments be established to ensure Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) at the polling stations.
Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Arvind Kumar Chaudhary, issued directives regarding security arrangements, which included weapon inspections, inspections of arms shops, verification of ammunition, and the prompt disposal of pending cases in police stations. He also mandated monthly inspections of all prisons. Additionally, he directed that social media be closely monitored to prevent the spread of misleading information.
Director General of Police Vinay Kumar instructed all police officers to expedite the execution of outstanding arrest and property seizure warrants. The Chief Secretary also instructed the district administrations to begin comprehensive preparations to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful election. This included establishing effective administrative arrangements to ensure 100% compliance with the Election Commission of India’s guidelines, accelerating the vehicle inspection campaign at district check posts, and maintaining high vigilance at inter-state borders.