The counting of votes for the Bihar Assembly elections commenced on Friday, revealing early trends that place the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) ahead of the Mahagathbandhan.
Officials are tallying results across all 243 constituencies, and the initial numbers set the tone for a closely watched electoral battle.
The counting process began at 8 AM, starting with the scrutiny of postal ballots.
By 8.30 AM, officials moved on to the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Elaborate multi-tier security arrangements are in place across all counting centres to ensure a smooth and transparent process.
The Election Commission has deployed 243 Returning Officers and an equal number of Counting Observers, while more than 18,000 counting agents representing various candidates are overseeing the procedure.
Entry to the counting halls is tightly regulated, and officials allow only individuals with valid passes inside. Authorities also ban mobile phones to ensure strict monitoring and prevent any interference.
Early Trends Favour the NDA
According to the Election Commission of India’s early trends released around 9 a.m., the BJP has taken the lead in several key constituencies, including Aurai, Sahebganj, Baruraj, Digha and Rajnagar.
The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the principal party in the Mahagathbandhan, is leading in Baniapur and Danapur.
As counting progressed, leaders from both fronts remained confident.
NDA representatives also stated that the people of Bihar had once again endorsed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guarantees and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s efforts to drive development across the state.
Minister Ashok Chaudhary told IANS, “Some people have voted to reject ‘Jungle Raj 2’ and to bring Nitish Kumar back. We will get a clear majority.”
Mahagathbandhan Confident of Change
On the other side, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav maintained optimism regarding the outcome.
Speaking to IANS, he declared, “Change will happen, a government will be formed,” expressing his determination to secure a mandate for the Mahagathbandhan.
The high-stakes election, conducted in two phases on 6 and 11 November, witnessed strong voter participation. Over 70 crore voters exercised their franchise to determine the future political direction of Bihar.
In the existing Bihar Legislative Assembly, the NDA commands 131 seats, comprising 80 held by the BJP, 45 by JD(U), four by HAM(S), and two by independents.
However, the Opposition collectively controls 111 seats — with the RJD holding 77, Congress 19, CPI(ML) 11, and the CPI(M) and CPI holding two each.
As counting continues, the early trends suggest a favourable start for the NDA.
However, with several hours of counting still ahead, the final picture will become clearer as constituency-level results firm up.
The election outcome will determine whether the ruling alliance retains power or whether the Mahagathbandhan succeeds in its call for change.
Also Read: PM Modi & Leaders Pay Tribute To Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru On 136th Birth Anniversary
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
