Election Commission of India (ECI) commences first level checking of EVMs across 38 districts of Bihar.

Patna, May 2, 2025: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has commenced the First Level Checking (FLC) of Electronic Voting Machines EVM in Bihar ahead of the 2025 assembly elections.

The operation began on Friday and will continue until June 30, covering all 38 districts of the state.

The ECI has entrusted the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) with the task, of deploying 13 specialized teams comprising 189 engineers.

ECIL began checking under the supervision of the Election Commission of India:

In the first phase, checking has begun in 13 districts: Kishanganj, Saharsa, Purnea, Darbhanga, Banka, Nalanda, Gaya, Begusarai, East Champaran, Saran, Siwan, Patna, and Sitamarhi.

“All national and state-level political parties were notified two days in advance of the FCL schedule. Their authorized representatives are allowed to observe the process live from designated venues,” said an ECI official.

To ensure transparency the Election Commission will issue identity cards to each political party representative. Only those with valid IDs will be allowed entry into the FLC premises after undergoing thorough security checks using metal detectors.

The venues are under constant CCTV surveillance, and carrying any electronic device inside is strictly prohibited. The district returning officers will conduct daily inspections of FLC locations within their jurisdictions, supported by district-level control rooms that will monitor procedures via real-time webcasting.

FLC will take place under tight security:

Security has been further tightened with the deployment of parliamentary forces to safeguard all locations where the FLC is being conducted. After completion of the technical checks, political parties will be invited to verify the EVMs and related equipment.

Bihar, with 243 assembly constituencies, is heading towards a high-stakes electoral contest. The main battle is between NDA and the Grand Alliance, through other players such as the AIMIM, BSP, and Jan Suraj Party are also set to throw their hats into the ring.

The FLC marks a crucial step in ensuring electoral integrity, reinforcing the Election Commission’s commitment to a free, fair, and transparent election process.

Also Read: The Election Commission has recorded 52.84% polling in Bihar by-poll.

EOM.