Largest party race within NDA: BJP edges past JD(U) in Bihar assembly polls

Patna: Early trends from the Election Commission of India (ECI) indicate a dramatic shift within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), with the BJP emerging as the largest party in the Bihar Assembly elections. As of noon, the BJP is leading in 87 of the 243 seats, overtaking the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal (United), which is ahead in 76 seats.

The two NDA allies are competing closely to stake a claim in forming the next government under Nitish Kumar. Just an hour earlier, JD(U) had been ahead in 83 seats compared to BJP’s 78, highlighting the tight contest between the allies.

Overall, the NDA is leading in 188 constituencies, while the Mahagathbandhan trails with 47 seats, as counting continues across the state.

The counting process for all 243 Assembly seats commenced at 8 a.m., beginning with the scrutiny of postal ballots. This was followed by the counting of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) votes from 8.30 a.m., taking place under extensive multi-tier security arrangements across the state.

Candidates from both alliances expressed confidence in their performance. Leaders from the NDA asserted that the people of Bihar had reposed faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guarantees and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's work toward the state's development.

The Mahagathbandhan, led by the RJD, claimed that Bihar had "voted for change" and expressed optimism that Tejashwi Yadav would form the next government.

The counting operations are being overseen by 243 Returning Officers and an equal number of Counting Observers appointed by the Election Commission.

Over 18,000 counting agents representing various candidates are present at the centres to monitor the process closely.

Entry into counting centres has been strictly restricted to individuals with valid passes, and the use of mobile phones inside counting halls has been completely prohibited.

The election witnessed participation from more than 70 crore voters who cast their ballots to decide the fate of both the ruling NDA and the Mahagathbandhan. The polling was held in two phases, on November 6 and 11.

In the outgoing Assembly, the NDA holds 131 seats, comprising BJP's 80, JD(U)'s 45, four of HAM(S) and two Independents. The Opposition bloc has 111 seats, with the RJD holding 77, Congress 19, CPI(ML) 11, CPM two and CPI two. IANS