Is the NDA's Grand Victory in Bihar a Reality?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- NDA shows strong lead in Bihar Assembly polls.
- Voter sentiment indicates rejection of ‘jungle raj’.
- Confidence expressed by BJP leaders regarding a significant mandate.
- Counting process is under strict security measures.
- More than 70 crore voters participated in these elections.
New Delhi, Nov 14 (NationPress) As the counting for the Bihar Assembly elections progresses and early indications reveal the NDA in a strong position, the BJP expressed optimism about the results, anticipating a significant triumph for the coalition. The party asserted that the Congress is set to be eradicated from the state, with the citizens of Bihar having decisively turned their backs on ‘jungle raj'.
In a statement to IANS, BJP national spokesperson Tuhin Sinha remarked, “The outcome appears promising, suggesting a grand victory for the NDA. By the time all results are finalized, the alliance is expected to clinch over 160-170 seats. The electorate has thoroughly rejected the ‘jungle raj'. Our ‘MY factor (Mahila-Yuva)’ holds significantly more influence compared to their factor. Bihar is poised to ascend to new heights.”
BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal stated, “It is confidently expected that the Congress will be eliminated; there is no question about it. Congress indulges in negative politics, which has no place in our nation. The BJP will emerge as the dominant party, and the NDA will establish the government.”
BJP leader Prem Shukla added, “These are merely the preliminary trends, and even in the final tally, the NDA is assured of a substantial mandate. Following this overwhelming support, the NDA government will be reinstated in Bihar. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the people of Bihar have already decided to extend a resounding mandate to the NDA.”
Currently, the early trends indicate that the ruling NDA is maintaining a significant lead over the Mahagathbandhan.
The counting of votes for all 243 constituencies in the Bihar Assembly election is ongoing amidst extensive, multi-tier security measures. The counting commenced at 8 a.m. with postal ballots being processed, followed by the counting of votes from Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at 8:30 a.m.
As per the Election Commission of India's (ECI) early trends at 9 a.m., the BJP is leading in Aurai, Sahebganj, Baruraj, Digha, and Rajnagar Assembly seats.
The RJD is reported to be leading in two seats – Baniapur and Danapur.
Candidates from various political factions expressed confidence about their chances in the elections.
The NDA claims that the people of Bihar have shown faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assurances and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's initiatives for the state's development. On the other hand, the Mahagathbandhan's RJD, while also optimistic, stated that Bihar has opted for “vote for change” this time, predicting that Tejashwi Yadav will form the government.
In a conversation with IANS, Minister Ashok Chaudhary mentioned, “Some voters have chosen to reject 'Jungle Raj 2' and bring Nitish Kumar back. We will secure a clear majority.”
Tejashwi, while addressing IANS, expressed, “Change will occur, a government will be established,” displaying his confidence in the electoral results as the counting continued.
The counting is being monitored by 243 Returning Officers and 243 Counting Observers appointed by the Election Commission. Over 18,000 counting agents designated by the candidates are also present to oversee the process.
Access to the counting centers is restricted to individuals with valid passes, and mobile phones are strictly prohibited within the counting halls.
More than 70 crore voters have participated in the elections, determining the fate of both the Mahagathbandhan and the ruling NDA in Bihar.
The Bihar Assembly election was held in two phases on November 6 and 11.
In the current Legislative Assembly, the NDA holds 131 seats, comprising BJP's 80, JD(U)'s 45, HAM(S)'s 4, and two independents, while the Opposition holds 111 seats – RJD with 77, Congress with 19, CPI(ML) 11, CPI(M) 2, and CPI 2.