Patna: Ahead of the counting of votes for Bihar’s 243 Assembly constituencies, security has been significantly tightened across the state, particularly at vulnerable and sensitive locations, following reports of sporadic clashes and inflammatory statements circulating on social media. Authorities have stressed a zero-tolerance policy toward any act of violence or disruption during the process.

Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed at all sensitive points within each assembly segment to maintain law and order. “Intelligence officers have issued alerts for constituencies where closely contested battles are expected. The situation in these areas has grown tense following the release of exit polls. Superintendents of Police (SPs) and District Magistrates (DMs) have been instructed to exercise heightened vigilance,” said a senior police official familiar with the preparations.

A comprehensive review of all election-related cases has been conducted. “We have examined cases registered before, during, and after the elections, including details of the individuals involved, the nature of past violence, and candidates or party workers with a criminal record related to elections,” the official added.

Bihar Director General of Police (DGP) Vinay Kumar has issued strict instructions to maintain peace on counting day. He warned that anyone attempting to break the law during or after the counting would face immediate arrest. “Any form of violence, vandalism, or provocation will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” DGP Kumar said.

In addition to the heavy deployment of security personnel, all counting centres will be monitored through 24/7 CCTV surveillance to detect suspicious activities in real time. The DGP also clarified that victory processions following the announcement of results will be banned. Any attempts at creating unnecessary crowding or causing unrest near counting centres will be met with FIRs under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Political leaders have also raised concerns over the pre-counting environment. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLC Sunil Singh issued a warning, claiming that a “Nepal or Bangladesh-like situation” could arise if attempts were made to interfere with the counting process. Referencing the 2020 elections, Singh said, “Counting was halted for two to four hours in 2020. If a similar situation occurs this time, people may take to the streets, creating a Nepal-like scenario,” questioning the credibility of exit polls that projected RJD with fewer than 50 seats.

In response, leaders from the ruling alliance urged calm. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president Dilip Jaiswal dismissed Singh’s remarks, stating, “There is rule of law in Bihar and no ‘goonda raj’. The RJD is acting out of desperation due to impending defeat and is attempting to insult the voters.” Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar added, “Bihar has a record of good governance, and the people will not tolerate lawlessness or chaos in any form.”

The Election Commission has also emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and adherence to legal norms during the counting process. Measures include restricting the number of people allowed near counting venues, limiting access to only essential personnel, candidates, and designated counting agents. These steps aim to prevent overcrowding and ensure that results are announced smoothly without incident.

Intelligence agencies have been closely monitoring the situation, particularly in constituencies with historically high political tensions. Officials have urged police to remain on high alert and to report any suspicious activities immediately. Mobile teams of law enforcement have been stationed in strategic locations to respond swiftly to any emergencies, ensuring that law and order is maintained throughout the day.

As the state prepares for the official counting on Friday, November 14, authorities are taking extra precautions in light of the high voter turnout this election, which was recorded at approximately 66.91 percent. A total of 7.45 crore voters were eligible to participate, with more than 2,600 candidates contesting the elections.

DGP Kumar made a direct appeal to political parties, candidates, and their supporters to respect the rule of law once the results are announced. “All parties must ensure that celebrations, if any, remain peaceful and do not disrupt public order. Violence, provocation, or creating panic will be strictly dealt with,” he said.

The upcoming vote counting is being viewed as a crucial test of Bihar’s administrative preparedness and ability to maintain law and order during a politically charged period. Authorities have stressed that all measures—from paramilitary deployment to CCTV monitoring and rapid response teams—are being implemented to guarantee the safety of voters, candidates, and election officials, and to uphold the integrity of the democratic process.

With political rhetoric intensifying and exit polls fuelling speculation, Bihar’s law enforcement machinery is leaving no stone unturned to prevent any incidents that could mar the counting process. The coming hours are expected to be critical, as the entire state watches closely for the outcome of one of the most closely contested assembly elections in recent history.