Have NDA Poll Results Surpassed the Magic Mark of 122 in Bihar?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- NDA surpasses 122-seat threshold
- Early trends show NDA leading in over 150 seats
- Counting process begins under strict security
- Voter turnout exceeds 70 crore
- Opposition claims for change emphasized
Patna, Nov 14 (NationPress) The NDA has successfully exceeded the crucial threshold of 122 seats in the Bihar Assembly elections, with preliminary reports from the Election Commission of India (ECI) suggesting that the coalition is leading in more than 150 seats.
Out of the 243 members of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, a total of 122 seats is required for a majority.
As per the ECI updates at 10:30 a.m., the ruling NDA was leading in 172 seats -- with the BJP securing 73, JD(U) 77, LJP(RV) 18, and HAMS four.
On the other hand, the Opposition Mahagathbandhan was leading in 54 seats -- with the RJD obtaining 42, Congress seven, and CPI(ML)(L) five.
The counting of votes for all 243 Assembly seats began at 8 a.m., starting with the examination of postal ballots, followed by the counting of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) votes from 8:30 a.m. This process is taking place under robust multi-tier security measures across the state.
Candidates from both alliances expressed confidence in their respective performances. NDA leaders emphasized that the people of Bihar have placed their trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assurances and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's efforts towards the state's progress.
The Mahagathbandhan, spearheaded by the RJD, asserted that Bihar has “voted for change” and expressed optimism about Tejashwi Yadav forming the upcoming government.
The counting operations are being supervised by 243 Returning Officers along with an equal number of Counting Observers appointed by the Election Commission.
More than 18,000 counting agents representing various candidates are present at the centers to closely observe the counting process.
Access to counting centers has been strictly limited to individuals possessing valid passes, and the use of mobile devices within counting halls is entirely prohibited.
The election saw participation from over 70 crore voters who cast their votes to determine the fate of the ruling NDA and the Mahagathbandhan. Polling took place in two phases on November 6 and 11.
In the outgoing Assembly, the NDA holds 131 seats, which comprises BJP's 80, JD(U)'s 45, four from HAM(S), and two Independents. The Opposition bloc has 111 seats, with the RJD holding 77, Congress 19, CPI(ML) 11, CPI(M) two, and CPI two.