NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s alliance is leading in exit polls from elections in one of India’s poorest yet politically-pivotal states, suggesting a possible boost for the Indian leader after a year marked by economic headwinds and foreign policy challenges, reports foreign media.
In the eastern state of Bihar, where voting in local polls concluded on Tuesday, Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party and its key regional ally, Janata Dal (United), are projected to win between 130 to 167 seats with the majority mark at 122 seats, according to forecasts. The main opposition alliance comprising of the Indian National Congress and some other regional parties is expected to secure between 70 to 108 seats. While exit polls aren’t definitive, a victory would help Modi reassert his authority after a year marked by challenges.
Bihar has a huge influence in national politics with its 127 million people, equivalent to the entire population of Mexico. The state sends 40 of the 543 lawmakers in the lower house of the national parliament.
The BJP has teamed up with the JD(U) party, led by current Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who has governed the state for most of the past two decades. Together with smaller allies, the bloc has wooed voters with social welfare programs and infrastructure projects.
The latest voter turnout for phase-2 of voting on Tuesday in Bihar stood at a record high of 67.14 per cent, according to the Election Commission of India.
A weak performance by the opposition, which has struggled to regain the momentum it built during the 2024 national election, is expected to further strain alliances ahead of five state polls scheduled for 2026. Official results are due to be released on Friday.
