1,625 CAPF Companies to Deploy for Bihar Phase‑11 Polls: Strengthening Election Security

Ahead of the Phase‑11 polling in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, 1,625 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) are set to be deployed across the state. This large-scale mobilization highlights the high stakes of the elections and aims to ensure safety, law and order, and smooth conduct of polls in both Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, reassuring voters about the integrity of the electoral process.

Why Such a Large Deployment? The deployment reflects the scale and complexity of elections in Bihar, with its mix of urban centres, semi-urban towns, and rural areas. The CAPF presence is crucial for booth-level security, patrolling sensitive areas, and rapid response to any incidents. In a state where electoral challenges have historically occurred, the deployment aims to maintain free and fair polling.

Focus on Urban and Semi-Urban Areas Urban and semi-urban centres like Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Gaya are expected to receive heightened security coverage. These areas, with dense populations, transport hubs, and communication networks, require additional vigilance to prevent disruptions and ensure orderly polling. The CAPF deployment intends to maintain confidence among voters in these key cities.

Role of CAPF Companies A CAPF company generally consists of 70–80 personnel. The deployment of 1,625 companies translates to tens of thousands of additional personnel supplementing the state police. Their responsibilities include escorting election materials, monitoring polling stations, managing traffic in sensitive zones, and providing rapid intervention in case of disturbances. Previous elections have shown that such deployments reduce incidents of booth-capturing and intimidation.

Coordination and Logistics Challenges Mobilizing thousands of personnel requires meticulous planning, including transport, accommodation, and integration with local police. Successful coordination demands understanding local languages, terrain, and community dynamics to ensure effective operations in Tier 2 towns and rural areas.

Impact on Voter Confidence A visible CAPF presence reassures voters of secure and fair polling. Enhanced security encourages higher turnout and ensures citizens feel safe while exercising their franchise. In urban enclaves with large migrant populations, the presence of CAPF units helps maintain trust in the electoral process and supports overall election management.

What Voters Should Know Citizens should anticipate increased visibility of security personnel, potential traffic adjustments around polling stations, and strict surveillance in sensitive areas. Voters should follow official instructions, adhere to polling guidelines, and report suspicious activity to ensure smooth polling.

Conclusion The deployment of 1,625 CAPF companies for Bihar’s Phase‑11 polls underscores the emphasis on security, law and order, and transparency. As the state prepares for voting, the significant resources being mobilized aim to ensure smooth, fair, and peaceful elections across urban and rural areas. This strategic deployment reflects the commitment to uphold democratic processes and maintain public trust in the electoral system.