Bihar : will hold its first panchayat elections using electronic voting machines (EVMs) instead of paper ballots. Around 2.46 lakh positions in the three-tier panchayati raj institutions—such as those of mukhiya, sarpanch, and district board chairpersons—will be filled by elections scheduled for April–May 2026.
According to a state election commission official, permission from the state government has been requested in order to purchase over 32,000 EVMs. Ballot papers and partly electronic voting machines were used in the 2021 panchayat elections. The voting process will be simpler and more transparent with the new system (the usage of EVMs). The officer said, “It will also speed up the counting process.”
According to sources, the procurement procedure for EVMs has begun, and the panchayati raj department’s written clearance is the only thing needed. Following the procurement of EVMs, the state election commission authorities could not completely rule out the prospect of a rise in election expenses. To speed up and improve the transparency of elections, the commission has set up `200 crore.
The commission is considering using M3 (Mark 3) EVMs, which are the most recent type and can store information for up to 384 candidates and 24 ballot units. One control unit will be connected to six ballot units for the six panchayat election posts, which include mukhikya, sarpanch, panchayat samiti member, and ward member.
According to the commission, switching to M3 devices would ensure safe voting while assisting in managing the complexities of multi-post rural elections.
The state election commission has started updating the reservation roaster and redrawing seat boundaries. In the panchayat institutions, seats are set aside for SC/STs according on their population, while EBCs and women are given 20% and 50% of the seats, respectively, in all six posts. “The preparations for the panchayat election next year have begun,” said State Election Commissioner Deepak Prasad.
Electronic survey
Next year, elections will be held in April and May to fill 2.46 lakh positions.
1.09 lakh positions as gram panchayat ward members
There must be over 32,000 EVMs. ~200 cr has been allocated by the SEC for the polling.
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