Jaipur, Nov 14 (NationPress) The vote counting for the Anta (Baran) Assembly bye-election in Rajasthan is currently in progress, with Congress candidate Pramod Jain 'Bhaya' establishing a notable lead after 14 rounds. Pramod Jain 'Bhaya' has garnered 51,012 votes, while Independent candidate Naresh Meena trails with 39,692 votes, and BJP candidate Morpal Suman with 38,634 votes.

To date, more than 1 lakh votes have been counted, and six rounds remain. Notably, Independent candidate Naresh Meena arrived at the counting center nearly three hours after the vote counting commenced.

As Bhaya's lead widened, Meena exited the center to join his supporters. In contrast, celebrations erupted among Congress workers, with many lighting firecrackers in jubilation.

District Election Officer Rohitashv Singh Tomar reported that the counting is happening at the Boys PG College, where 14 counting tables have been established, with a total of 20 rounds planned.

Fifteen candidates are contesting, and the constituency saw an impressive 80.21 percent voter turnout on November 11.

A large crowd has gathered outside the counting center, with thousands of Naresh Meena's supporters prompting a heightened police presence. Supporters began arriving at Bhaya's residence in Baran's Shriji Chowk early in the morning, some even seeking blessings by touching his feet.

Prior to the counting, Bhaya visited a cowshed with his wife to perform seva, expressing confidence in his victory. Meanwhile, Suman also visited the counting center in the morning, asserting his own chances of winning.

As trends began to emerge, sloganeering escalated, and barricades were placed near the College intersection to limit unauthorized access. The counting commenced at 8 a.m. with the ballot papers, and the situation remains dynamic with six rounds still pending.

In the meantime, Congress leader and former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed his delight over the ongoing trends, stating that the party is on track for a significant victory.