Bihar Assembly Election 2025: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Vote Using EVM & VVPAT

The Bihar Assembly Election 2025 is just around the corner, and lakhs of voters are preparing to cast their votes across the state. For first-time voters, using an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) may feel new, but the process is simple and secure. The Election Commission of India has made voting faster, transparent, and reliable with EVM and VVPAT systems.

This guide explains every step, from entering the polling booth to checking your vote on the VVPAT slip, so that you can vote confidently and correctly.

Who Can Vote in Bihar Election 2025

Every Indian citizen living in Bihar who is 18 years or older on the election date and has their name on the electoral roll is eligible to vote.

What Document You Need for Voting?

Voters must carry their Voter ID card or any valid photo ID proof such as an Aadhaar card, passport, or driving licence to the polling station.

What Is an EVM and VVPAT?

An Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) is used to record votes electronically. Each candidate’s name and party symbol appear on the EVM beside a blue button.

The Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) is connected to the EVM and prints a small slip displaying the chosen candidate’s name and party symbol. This slip appears in a transparent window for about 7 seconds, allowing the voter to confirm their selection.

Step-by-Step Process to Vote Using EVM

• Enter your designated polling booth and join the queue.
• The first polling officer checks your name and ID.
• The second officer applies indelible ink on your finger and gives you a slip.
• The third officer takes your signature or thumbprint to confirm your participation.
• Move to the EVM booth when the officer enables the machine for you.
• Find your preferred candidate’s name and symbol on the EVM.
• Press the blue button next to your choice. You’ll hear a short beep sound and see a light flash confirming your vote.
• Look at the VVPAT window to check the printed slip showing your selection.
• If the slip matches your vote, it’s recorded successfully. If not, inform the polling officer immediately.
• Exit the booth once done — your voting process is complete.

Important Tips for Every Voter

• Arrive early to avoid long queues.
• Follow all polling staff instructions.
• Mobile phones, cameras, and gadgets are not allowed inside booths.
• Always check your VVPAT slip before leaving.
• Use the NOTA (None of the Above) option if you don’t support any candidate.
• Ask for help from polling officers whenever needed.

After You Vote: What Happens Next?

Once your vote is cast, the VVPAT slip falls into a sealed box for audit purposes. The ink mark on your finger ensures you can’t vote twice. Votes from all booths are securely stored until counting day.

In Bihar, vote counting will take place on November 14, 2025, when results for all constituencies will be declared.

This process keeps every vote private, secure, and tamper-proof, ensuring free and fair elections across the state.