NOTA (None of the Above) in Bihar Assembly Elections 2025

IN NEWS: NOTA (None of the Above) in Bihar Assembly Elections 2025

Why NOTA Is in News?

In the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, the share of votes polled under the None of the Above (NOTA) option increased marginally compared to the 2020 Assembly elections. However, it remained significantly lower than the peak recorded during the 2015 Bihar Assembly polls, according to data released by the Election Commission of India.

What Is NOTA?

NOTA (None of the Above) is an option provided on Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) that allows voters to formally register their decision to reject all contesting candidates in an election while still exercising their right to vote.

Objectives of NOTA

To uphold the voter’s right to reject all candidates.
To strengthen freedom of expression in electoral participation.
To enhance the secrecy and dignity of the voting process.
To encourage political parties to field better candidates.

Key Data from Bihar Assembly Elections 2025

Total electorate: Over 7.45 crore
Voter turnout: 66.91% (highest since 1951)
Total voters who cast votes: 3.51 crore
Votes polled for NOTA: 6,65,870
NOTA share in 2025: 1.81%
NOTA share in 2020: 1.68% (7,06,252 votes)
NOTA share in 2015: 2.48% (9.4 lakh votes)
Lowest NOTA share recorded in: 2024 Lok Sabha elections

Role and Functions of NOTA in Electoral Democracy

Acts as a formal mechanism for voter dissatisfaction.
Preserves ballot secrecy compared to the earlier Form 49-O.
Serves as an indicator of public disapproval of political choices.
Provides feedback to political parties on candidate selection.

Legal and Constitutional Background

Introduced following a Supreme Court judgment in September 2013.
Implemented by the Election Commission as the last option on EVMs.
Replaced Form 49-O, which compromised voter secrecy.
The Supreme Court has clarified that a majority NOTA vote does not mandate re-election.

Trends and Significance

The marginal rise in NOTA votes in 2025 suggests limited voter protest despite high turnout.
Lower NOTA share compared to 2015 indicates consolidation of voter preference in a bipolar contest.
Reflects increased voter engagement rather than disengagement.

Way Forward

Strengthen inner-party democracy to improve candidate quality.
Increase voter awareness on the symbolic and practical implications of NOTA.
Explore reforms to enhance the accountability impact of NOTA votes.
Encourage transparency in candidate selection to reduce protest voting.

Updated – 14 November 2025 ; 06:35 PM | Source: The Hindu