As political temperatures rise ahead of the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday demanded clarity from the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the delay in releasing gender-wise voter turnout figures from the first phase of polling.

Addressing reporters, Tejashwi raised serious questions about transparency in the electoral process.

“It’s been almost three days since the first phase of the elections. Yet, the Election Commission has not released details of male and female voter turnout,” he said, alleging irregularities in poll management.

“Why are these figures being hidden? VVPAT slips were found scattered on streets. CCTV cameras are being turned off. The Election Commission must clarify why this information is being withheld,” he added.

The first phase of polling, held on Thursday, witnessed a record 65.08% turnout, the highest-ever in Bihar’s assembly election history. Voting took place across 121 constituencies in 18 districts, with over 3.75 crore voters eligible to cast their votes.

As the state now prepares for the second phase of polling on November 11, political leaders are intensifying their outreach. The final results will be declared on November 14.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, campaigning in Odisha’s Nuapada, voiced his support for the RJD’s chief ministerial candidate.

“The people of Bihar want change this time. Bihar will change only when the government changes. We are confident that Tejashwi Yadav will lead the next government and build a new Bihar,” Akhilesh told ANI.

Echoing similar sentiments, Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD) chief Tej Pratap Yadav expressed optimism about the Mahagathbandhan’s prospects after wrapping up his campaign for the upcoming phase.

“The election campaign has been very intense. There will be a change,” he told ANI confidently.