New Delhi: All eyes are fixed on the by-election for the Bankipur Assembly seat in Bihar. This election is generating significant buzz because the seat fell vacant following the resignation of BJP leader Nitin Navin, and Prashant Kishor, founder of the Jan Suraaj Party, is also in the fray. While political parties are making their respective claims, vote counting has already begun in Bankipur.
This seat is a matter of prestige for the BJP, while the outcome will also determine the future of Prashant Kishor. Bankipur is considered an impregnable BJP stronghold; if Prashant Kishor manages to breach it, he could send a strong message against the government in Bihar. (Note: The Jan Suraaj Party had contested the 2025 Assembly elections but failed to open its account.
Elaborate Arrangements for Counting
Extensive security arrangements have been put in place by the administration for the counting process in Bankipur. General traffic has been completely halted on the road leading from Boring Road Crossing towards AN College. Only officials involved in the counting process and vehicles with valid passes are permitted on this stretch.
The public has been advised to use alternative routes. Security has been tightened significantly within the AN College campus and surrounding areas. Entry into the counting centre is restricted to individuals holding Election Commission passes. Candidates and their election agents are entering through Gate No. 1 of the college, and entry is granted only after security checks.
Ban on Electronic Devices
To maintain the secrecy and integrity of the process, a ban has been imposed on all types of devices inside the counting centre. No individual is permitted to carry mobile phones, electronic gadgets, or any objectionable items inside.
Election Held Following Nitin Navin’s Resignation
The Bankipur Assembly seat, located near Patna, has long been a BJP stronghold. Nitin Navin consistently won elections from this seat, a constituency his father had also won previously. The seat fell vacant following his resignation, necessitating a by-election. Thirteen rounds of vote counting have been scheduled.
Will Prashant Kishor make it to the Legislative Assembly?
Prashant Kishor, who once devised strategies for other parties, is now actively involved in Bihar politics following the launch of his own Jan Suraaj Party. He is trying his luck for the first time in the Bankipur by-election. All eyes are on whether he will emerge victorious in this maiden electoral battle. However, most exit polls predict a win for him.
