Bihar bypoll: Bankipur byelection counting begins, Prashant Kishor’s electoral debut in focus
Vote counting has commenced for the Bankipur Assembly bypoll in Bihar. The election features a high-profile debut by Prashant Kishor of the Jan Suraaj Party against the incumbent BJP.
Why it matters
This election serves as a critical test for Prashant Kishor's political transition from strategist to candidate in a long-held BJP stronghold.
Counting of votes for the Bankipur Assembly bypoll in Bihar began at 8 a.m. in Patna on Monday (August 3, 2026), with all eyes on whether debutant Prashant Kishor of Jan Suraaj Party wrests the seat from the BJP.
Read updates from the vote counting for Manjalpur Assembly bypoll in Gujarat
The by-election was necessitated following the resignation of BJP national president Nitin Nabin, who gave up the seat in April upon election to the Rajya Sabha.
"The counting of votes for the Bankipur by-election began amid tight security arrangements," an official said.
The bypoll, held on July 30, recorded a voter turnout of 34.30% , down by more than seven per cent from the 41.45% registered in the last Assembly elections.
A total of 26 candidates are in the fray this time.
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