Over 50,000 voters opt for postal ballot in first phase of Bihar polls

NEW DELHI: Around 52,000 eligible voters in Bihar have opted for the postal ballot facility for 71 constituencies, which will go to polls in the first phase on October 28. The Election Commission on Monday said that over four lakh electors in the above 80 years of age and physically disabled categories in these contituencies were approached by booth level officers with forms that they must fill up and return, declaring their decision to vote by postal ballot.
Officials said that 52,000 electors will be provided postal ballots on pre-informed dates, with proper security and videography arrangements to ensure secrecy, safety and transparency in the process. This is the first time that postal ballot facility is extended for ‘senior citizens above 80 years of age’ and ‘persons with disabilities’ categories in Bihar polls.
Meanwhile, the nomination process for 71 constituencies spread over 16 districts of Bihar, where polling is scheduled on October 28, ended on Monday.