With the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections just days away, security measures have been tightened along the India–Nepal border, with all entry points ordered closed for 72 hours to prevent cross-border movement and maintain law and order.
Mahottari Assistant Chief District Officer Sanjay Kumar Pokhrel told ANI that the decision was taken as part of heightened vigilance during the poll period.
“The election is scheduled to be held on November 11 in Bihar, India. From a security perspective, we have halted border crossings. All entry points in Mahottari district have been sealed since 6 pm on Saturday,” Pokhrel confirmed.
The closure comes amid an intense political atmosphere as top leaders from both the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Mahagathbandhan (MGB) wrapped up their final campaign rallies on Sunday, making a last-ditch effort to sway undecided voters ahead of the crucial vote.
At a massive rally in Sasaram, Union Home Minister Amit Shah invoked nationalism and promised robust security initiatives for the state.
“On this sacred land of Shaktipeeth, I say this — if terrorists fire a bullet, we will respond with a shell,” he declared, adding that the Centre plans to set up a defence corridor and a new ordnance factory in Bihar to boost local industries and employment.
Echoing the message of continuity, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary reiterated that Nitish Kumar would remain Chief Minister if the NDA retains power.
“Nitish Kumar is the Chief Minister today and will continue to lead after the NDA’s victory,” he asserted at a rally in Patna.
On the other hand, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a fierce attack on the BJP-led alliance, alleging irregularities and claiming attempts at “vote theft.”
“Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and the Chief Election Commissioner are stealing votes,” Gandhi alleged, urging young voters to “guard democracy and their future.” He further stated, “I want that instead of Made in China, we should see Made in Bihar written on mobile phones.”
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged voters to choose progress over regression.
“This election will decide whether Bihar continues on the path of development or returns to the jungle raj of the past. India can only become Viksit Bharat when Bihar becomes Viksit Bihar,” he said while addressing gatherings in Gaya and Kaimur.
As campaigning ends and voting day approaches, the political battleground is set for a fierce face-off. The second phase of polling will be held on November 11, with the results to be declared on November 14.
