The stage is set for the Bihar Assembly election results, with vote counting now under way at 46 centres in 38 districts after starting at 8 am. The outcome will determine whether Nitish Kumar, the longest-serving Chief Minister and JD(U) leader, secures a record fifth consecutive term or if the electorate opts for change.

Exit polls have largely predicted a clean sweep for the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which includes the JD(U) and BJP, creating a wave of confidence among its leaders. Meanwhile, opposition RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has dismissed these predictions, vowing that his party and supporters are ready to challenge any irregularities during the counting process.

NDA upbeat, prepares for victory

Reports from news agency PTI indicate that BJP leaders in Bihar have already ordered large quantities of sweets to celebrate what they anticipate as a “day of victory.” Senior JD(U) leader Shravan Kumar, who previously held the rural development portfolio, predicted an NDA win, though he suggested it could come “with a difference.”

The NDA in Bihar consists of five parties, but the JD(U) and BJP dominated the elections, each contesting 101 of the 243 assembly constituencies. Key candidates include deputy chief ministers Samart Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, while the opposition INDIA bloc – comprising RJD, Congress, CPI(ML) Liberation, other Left parties, and Vikasheel Insaan Party (VIP) – has fielded candidates including Tejashwi Yadav, Tej Pratap Yadav, and Bihar Congress president Rajesh Kumar.

Tejashwi Yadav challenges exit polls

Addressing the media in Patna on Thursday, Tejashwi Yadav asserted that the Mahagathbandhan alliance is ready to form the next government with a “clear majority” and dismissed exit polls favouring the NDA.

"We are completely confident that we are forming the government with a clear majority... We will very comfortably win the election tomorrow. Our workers are at all the counting stations and are alert. If the Administration repeats their 2020 mistake again, or anyone crosses their limit, does something unconstitutional and unfair, and if any official acts on anyone's orders, then the public will take care of it," he said.

Tejashwi also criticised the media for past inaccuracies, citing exaggerated reports of Indian armed forces’ action during Operation Sindoor and, more recently, unverified reports of the “death” of legendary actor Dharmendra, who was convalescing at a Mumbai hospital. He accused the BJP of attempting to shape a narrative of victory through “certain BJP leaders, along with some compliant media and officials.” He warned of “possible cheating” during counting, alleging that Mahagathbandhan wins might be delayed while NDA seats are announced first.

Get live updates of the Bihar Election Results 2025 here

Record voter turnout and robust preparations

Bihar recorded a historic voter turnout of 67.13 per cent in the two-phase elections on November 6 and 11. The Muslim-majority Seemanchal region reported the highest participation, averaging 75.10 per cent, with Kishanganj at 78.06 per cent, Katihar at 78.63 per cent, Purnia at 76.04 per cent, and Araria at 69.68 per cent.

The Election Commission has ensured tight security, with EVMs and VVPATs sealed in strong rooms under a double-lock system. Control rooms staffed by senior district officials have been set up at every strong room campus, with frequent inspections directed by district election officers and returning officers. A total of 7.45 crore voters were eligible to decide the fate of 2,616 candidates.

War of words ahead of counting

Tensions have mounted in the final hours before counting. RJD leader Sunil Kumar Singh warned of a “Nepal-like situation” if counting is halted, recalling controversies from 2020. BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal responded by emphasising that polling had been peaceful and that party leaders remained in constant touch with workers at counting centres, expecting a smooth process.

Tejashwi Yadav reiterated the party’s readiness in a post on X: "The justice-loving people of Bihar, the birthplace of democracy, and all social and political workers who love Bihar and the Constitution are alert, vigilant, cautious, and fully capable, aware, and prepared with enthusiasm, hope, and confidence to deal with any kind of improper unconstitutional activity." He added, "Bihar and Biharis are committed to saving democracy and the Constitution."

Counting begins Friday morning

The counting of votes officially began at 8 am, with trends expected to start emerging by 9 am. The results, concluding a nearly month-long election campaign, will be announced the same day. Observers are watching closely to see whether the NDA consolidates power as projected by exit polls or if Tejashwi Yadav’s assertions translate into an upset.

(With inputs from agencies)