As it happened: Voters reject NDA politics, give Grand Alliance thumping victory in Bihar

“Nitish ji, Lalu ji and Rahul’s hard work has paid off,” says Shatrughan Sinha. 

CNN-IBN pointed out that BJP overestimated the Manjhi factor and paid for it. The channel added that one more reason for its loss could be PM Modi’s barbs at Lalu which helped him emerge as the target of the upper caste conspiracy.

Also, BJP’s beef politics might not have gone down well with the voters in Bihar, who have bigger problems to look out for. BJP’s failue to project a CM candidate and run the entire election just under the name of Modi and Amit Shah could be another reason for the massive drubbing that the alliance received in the state. 

I would request my party to introspect its shortcoming and take action: Shatrughan Sinha, BJP #BiharResults

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Lalu Yadav, Nitish Kumar and Rahul Gandhi's hard work has paid off: Shatrughan Sinha on #NitishReturns pic.twitter.com/R9EIWx9lJp

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

Despite all my efforts &coming from the masses I wasn't called during elections: Shatrughan Sinha, BJP #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/dt4kvj8xMg

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

I have always stated that Bihar Elections will give new dimension to Indian politics: Sharad Pawar,NCP #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/8spz28F2AG

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

“I had tried telling my party not to do ’negative politics.” Shatrughan Sinha reacts to BJP’s loss in Bihar Elections.

Obviously I am sad, I had predicted the writing on the wall: Shatrughan Sinha #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/bgrWwzbf1F

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Obviously I am sad, I had predicted the writing on the wall: Shatrughan Sinha #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/bgrWwzbf1F

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

I had tried telling my party to refrain from doing 'negative' politics but I was not called by them: Shatrughan Sinha, BJP #BiharResults

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Only 2.5% of electorate opts for NOTA in Bihar elections

There were few takers in the Bihar Assembly polls for the ’none of the above’ option which was introduced by the Election Commission in 2013 following a Supreme Court judgement.

According to figures made available by the poll body, 9,13,561 voters opted for the NOTA option in the state which has 243 assembly seats.

Percentage-wise, around 2.5 per cent voters hit the NOTA button which is placed as the last option on the electronic voting machine. Out of a total of over 6.68 crore voters, 56.80 per cent had exercised their franchise, the highest ever in Bihar’s history, be it Assembly or Lok Sabha polls.

First Delhi, now Bihar; BJP’s loss in Bihar is Modi’s personal defeat: Left

The Left parties today said the Bihar mandate underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “personal defeat” and reflected inception of “good days” for people who rejected RSS-BJP’s “communal politics” for “secular and democratic” values.

It said the rejection was handed first in Delhi now Bihar.

Congratulating JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar and RJD chief Lalu Prasad following the grand alliance’s victory in the Assembly polls, the Left parties stressed, the struggle for “better India” intensifies from here on.

Rajya Sabha member, D Raja, echoed similar views and termed JD(U)-RJD-Congress grand alliance’ victory as “decisive”.

CPI (M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury observed the verdict ensured beginning of “good days” for people as they rejected alleged communal polarisation by RSS-BJP and its “so-called” development agenda. “People’s acche din have begun, first Delhi, yesterday Kerala and today Bihar.

The subtext of the verdict is very clear that is people have rejected the communal polarisation that was going on by the RSS and BJP and rejected the claims of so-called development agenda of the government,” Yechury said.

“Congratulations to Lalu ji, Nitish ji, people of Bihar & India. The bitterness the BJP tried to inject was defeated. First Delhi, then Kerala and now Bihar, People making their own Achhe Din. “Nitish ji, Congratulations, well done. Now, for bigger battles. Lalu ji, Congratulations. Ek behtar Bharat ke liye, ab sangharsh tez hoga,” he said in series of tweets.

PTI

Congratulations to Lalu ji, Nitish ji, people of Bihar & India. The bitterness the BJP tried to inject was defeated. @cpimspeak

— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) November 8, 2015

First Delhi, then Kerala and now Bihar, People making their own Achhe Din. @cpimspeak

— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) November 8, 2015

Nitish ji, Congratulations, well done. Now, for bigger battles. @NitishKumar @cpimspeak

— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) November 8, 2015

Nitish ji, Congratulations, well done. Now, for bigger battles. @NitishKumar @cpimspeak

— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) November 8, 2015

Lalu ji, Congratulations. Ek behtar Bharat ke liye, ab sangharsh tez hoga. @laluprasadrjd @cpimspeak

— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) November 8, 2015

We will introspect over shortcomings," says Sushil Modi

Sushil Modi, speaking with the media today, said that the NDA won less seats than expected and “we will introspect over shortcomings in coming days.”

NDA won less seats than expected, we will introspect over shortcomings in coming days: Sushil Modi #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/EKwvLOyxUH

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

We will extend our full support to the Govt for development in state, will play role of constructive opposition: Sushil Modi #BiharResults

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

I congratulate Nitsh ji and Lalu ji: Sushil Modi

“We will support Grand Alliance whole heartedly. We will help them in state’s functioning as a good Opposition,” says Sushil Modi, who could have been the Chief Minister if BJP-led NDA alliance had won. 

People have given clear majority to Mahagathbandhan, it's good that it's not a fractured mandate: Senior BJP leader Sushil Modi

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

#NitishReturns | Sushil Modi: I called Lalu Yadav & Nitish Kumar to congratulate them on their victory

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

People have given clear majority to Mahagathbandhan, it's good that it's not a fractured mandate: Senior BJP leader Sushil Modi

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Clear mandate in interest of state, we respect the verdict given by the people of Bihar: Sushil Modi #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/G0KPZ6uijg

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

“If you try to divide people on communal lines, people will not tolerate it. Now, Modi ji should change his style. He should sit himself down and manage affairs of the country. Price rise is driving people crazy and Modi ji is busy planning foreign trips,” says Arvind Kejriwal.

Arvind Kejriwal: Modi is the face of intolerance, he is interfering in Delhi govt through LG #NitishReturns
LIVE: https://t.co/0oylhk7Wp5

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

Arvind Kejriwal to CNN-IBN: If Modi's interference in states continues, CMs will come together #NitishReturns pic.twitter.com/Gj0euB5ksS

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

#EXCLUSIVE | Arvind Kejriwal: Hatred of politics will not be tolerated, we will come together against it
LIVE: https://t.co/0oylhk7Wp5

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

Arvind Kejriwal speaks to CNN-IBN about his friendship with Mamata Banerjee and Nitish

All good people are friends, smiles Kejriwal. “The Centre cannot keep interfering in state’s functioning. It’s people’s mandate and Modi ji should respect that.”

When asked that why is he friends with Chief Ministers who are at loggerheads with PM Narendra Modi, Kejriwal says don’t politicise the situation. “It is about issues that we bond on. There is nothing personal here.”

#EXCLUSIVE | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal: Bihar results were very important as there was politics of hatred being played #NitishReturns

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to CNN-IBN on #NitishReturns: Delhi & Bihar results have proved that people are upset with Modi's style of working

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

#NitishReturns | Arvind Kejriwal to CNN-IBN: Modi got a large mandate but he failed to live upto the expectations pic.twitter.com/cCazWrZ6oN

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

Sebi, bourses beef up surveillance, risk management to tackle market swings, post Bihar results, and keep manipulators at bay. — PTI

People of Bihar taught RSS, BJP a lesson: Rabri Devi

“The people took note of the way BJP was causing price rise, their issues over reservation and cow slaughter,” former Bihar CM Rabri Devi told Times Now. “RSS and BJP called the rule under Lalu Prasad ‘jungle raj’. The people of Bihar taught them a lesson.”

Sebi, bourses beef up surveillance, risk management to tackle market swings, post Bihar results, and keep manipulators at bay. — PTI

KCR congratulates Nitish Kumar

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao congratulated Nitish Kumar for his stupendous success in the Bihar assembly elections.

According to a statement issued by the Telangana CM’s office, Rao hoped that his Bihar counterpart would live up to the expectations of the people by offering good governance. – PTI

Sebi, bourses beef up surveillance, risk management to tackle market swings, post Bihar results, and keep manipulators at bay. — PTI

Two star performers in Bihar, but there's only one man of the match: Lalu Prasad - https://t.co/vDd5DTExP9 pic.twitter.com/XG49tlC519

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

The 2015 Bihar polls will be a milestone in Indian politics: Nitish Kumar #BiharResults https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

Jitan Ram Manjhi loses from Makhdumpur by 26,670 votes, reports have said. 

Meanwhile, CNN-IBN reported that the latest numbers put BJP-led NDA alliance at 58 seats as JD(U)-RJD-Congress surges ahead with 179 seats.

#NitishReturns | We are yet to decide the date for oath taking ceremony: Nitish Kumar pic.twitter.com/Qmsq2yByU8

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

Nitish Kumar stays mum on deputy CM’s post for Lalu Prasad’s son. 

“These things are not discussed at a press conference,” says Nitish.

Nitish Kumar: there is a growing desire in the country for a strong opposition, it is also the requirement of a functioning democracy.

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Mulayam Singh ji ki hum sab log izzat karte hain, hum logon ki taraf se unke prati samman mein na koi kami thi, na hai aur na rahegi: Nitish

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

BJP had its eyes on Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal; It wanted to move eastwards,Bihar stopped them in tracks: Lalu Yadav #NitishReturns

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

“Jin patrakaron ko maine kuch bola tha, ab jo hum log jeet gayein hain, wo main ab wapas leta hoon” epic closing line from Lalu Prasad Yadav.

Even Gandhi would be ashamed if he saw the way India was being divided today: Lalu Prasad #BiharResults https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

Questioning Modi’s courtesy call to Nitish, Lalu said, “Badhayee dena toh courtesy ki baat hai, lekin Modiji dil se diye hain ya nahi?”

“After Mohan Bhagwat’s remarks, the people of Bihar understood that they want to end quotas. Nitish will be governing Bihar. So he won’t take a big part in our andolan against BJP.”

Nitish will be governing Bihar. So he won't take a big part in our andolan against BJP: Lalu Prasad https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

After Mohan Bhagwat's remarks, the people of Bihar understood that they want to end quotas: Lalu Prasad https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

Badhayee dena toh courtesy ki baat hai, lekin Modiji dil se diye hain ya nahi? asks Lalu Prasad https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

“BJP is not a party, it is a mask”

'This election was not a problem for us, but we will cause problems in Delhi': Lalu Yadav #Bihar pic.twitter.com/EFB4rHU6Xs

— NDTV (@ndtv) November 8, 2015

'There was an attempt to communalise these elections. But the people of #Bihar defeated that attempt': Lalu Yadav https://t.co/fDssHeE789

— NDTV (@ndtv) November 8, 2015

“Modi is acting like a RSS manager.” 

Narendra Modi mistook Bihar for Haryana and Maharashtra, says Lalu Prasad Yadav. “Modi is acting like a RSS manager. Hum thoda khol ke bolte hain, ye (Nitish kumar) thoda dhak ke bolte hain (I say openly, Nitish says it with subtlety),”  says Lalu.

“BJP tried every trick in the book to divide Bihar. But this is not any other state. It is hard to uproot Nitish from Bihar politics.”

After sleeping through the press conference, Lalu Prasad Yadav finally wakes up.

Chunaav ke dauraan chaahe jo kuch bhi hua ho, hum apne kaam mein uss se prabhaavit nhi honge, hum positivity ke saath kaam karenge: Nitish

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

We don't hold grudges against anyone, whatever hppnd during #BiharElections won't affect our functioning, will work with positivity: Nitish

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

We respect our Opposition in Bihar, want to work in consensus with everyone to develop Bihar: Nitish #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/9Osx1tL5ew

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

People across nation definitely wish for an effective opposition,we will respect our opposition:Nitish #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/oDL34udLuz

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

“People of Bihar have voted against the hate politics. Poeple want an alternative to BJP in national politics.”

Speaking about grand alliance, Nitish said that the alliance worked in perfect tandem and has earned the victory. “We will accept the mandate with extreme humility and work to develop Bihar.”

Bihar understands the role it plays in the national context: Nitish Kumar https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

We will respect the Opposition in Bihar: Nitish Kumar https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3 pic.twitter.com/XoBc0tXOm8

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

People of the country want an alert and strong opposition: Nitish Kumar https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

Goodmorning? Not. Lalu Prasad falls asleep

And as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar speaks to the media, Lalu Prasad Yadav, his friend and brother for these elections, finds it difficult to keep eyes open. 

He is seen yawning, and waking up and then falling back to sleep. It does not come as a surprise, as he woke up and gave us the first quotable quote of counting day before everyone else. 

Wake up Lalu ji, you won!

“The Bihar election results will have an impact in the arena of national politics. But this also means that we need a strong Opposition and as the ruling party we will respect the Opposition. We would want to work together with the Opposition for state’s development. Even pradhan mantri ji has congratulated us. With the help of Centre, I think we can go ahead with positive aspirations.”

There was a lot of aggressive campaigning during Bihar polls: Nitish Kumar https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3 pic.twitter.com/r5t2deQXGf

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

But the people of Bihar saw through the aggressive campaigning: Nitish Kumar https://t.co/1nX6IgVyK3

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

Hum logon ke mann mein koi, Bihar ke sandarbh mein, kisi bhi prakar ka, kisi ke prati koi durbhavana nhi rahegi: Nitish Kumar

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Nitish Kumar says that despite the aggressive campaigning in the run-up to the elections, there is no hard feelings towards any political leader or party. 

“This is a huge victory which suggests people of Bihar have aspirations, we will match up with their expectations.”

Mahagathbandhan has worked in unity &will continue to do so for the development of Bihar: Nitish Kumar #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/0gdcU1l7q2

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

This is a huge victory which suggests people of Bihar have aspirations, we will match up with their expectations: Nitish Kumar #BiharResults

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Nitish Face + Lalu Base = Two-thirds majority, says CNN-IBN. 

Nitish Kumar and Lalu Prasad arrive for the media briefing in Patna. We see the duo in a strong embrace. 

“I congratulate the people’s mandate and I want to tell them that this victory is Bihar’s and its people. People of Bihar have revealed what they really wanted out of this elections. I want to thank them. It’s a win for Bihar’s pride.”

“The grand alliance has worked for this victory. Each and every worker deserves this victory.”

Congratulate ppl of Bihar, this is their victory,this is victory of Bihar's 'Swabhimaan': Nitish Kumar #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/obj2Y54NPS

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Watch Lalu and Nitish meet the media after their Bihar win

Modi govt is committed to give Rs 1.25 lakh-crore economic package for Bihar: Rajnath 

The Centre is committed to provide the Rs 1.25-lakh-crore economic package announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Bihar, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today as he congratulated Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and RJD chief Lalu Prasad for their victory in assembly polls.

As JD(U)-RJD led Mahagathbandhan headed for a landslide victory, Singh said the BJP and the central government respect the mandate given by the people of Bihar.

“The economic package for Bihar is a commitment given by the Prime Minister which will be fulfilled by the Centre at all cost,” he said here. Singh said he hoped that the government in Patna will lead Bihar on the path of peace and progress. He called up both Kumar and Lalu and congratulated them for their party’s victory. The Home Minister also congratulated JD(U) President Sharad Yadav.

“Spoke to Shri Nitish Kumar over the phone and congratulated him on his party’s victory in Bihar assembly elections. Congratulated RJD president Shri Lalu Prasad and JDU president Shri Sharad Yadav on their party’s performance in Bihar Assembly elections,” he said.

The economic package for Bihar is a commitment given by the Prime Minister which will be fulfilled by the Centre at all cost

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 8, 2015

Congratulated RJD president Shri Lalu Prasad and JDU president Shri Sharad Yadav on their party's performance in Bihar Assembly elections

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 8, 2015

Watch Lalu and Nitish meet the media after their Bihar win

Nitish Kumar will address the media in a while. 

After a landslide victory, RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav hailed the Bihar mandate and said that Nitish Kumar will continue to be the Chief Minister of the state. 

#NitishReturns All quiet in 1, Polo Road, Patna, Sushil Modi's Residence@SumitpSumit sends us this image. pic.twitter.com/OiDmHmWtC6

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

According to CNN-IBN, Grand Alliance surges ahead with 177 as BJP-led NDA alliance falls below the 60-seat mark

#NitishReturns
Mahagathbandhan surges ahead
NDA falls below the 60 mark

LIVE: https://t.co/em16lEJfkR pic.twitter.com/qfTOetjUjd

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 8, 2015

Watch Lalu and Nitish meet the media after their Bihar win

Watch Lalu and Nitish meet the media after their Bihar win

We will fulfill the wishes of women who voted for us, says Lalu

Lalu congratulating Nitish Kumar said, “There is no RJD, JD(U), but there is only Mahagathbandhan. Nothing can stop us now.”

“We will fulfill the wishes of the women of different classes who voted for us,” Lalu says, and also scold some people addressing them as “burbak”.

“Netas of the country have congratulated Nitish Kumar. We have accepted that but we won’t forget our fight,” Lalu said. 

“Modi govt, RSS govt will be razed to the ground,” he says, then yells some more at the crowd (Kya kar rahe ho, arrey!) because of being interrupted. 

It even makes Nitish laugh. 

Keeping BJP at the Centre is like breaking apart India, says  Lalu 

Speaking after their massive win Lalu Prasad Yadav says, “We thank the people of Bihar for giving Mahagathbandhan a huge victory.” 

“We will take Bihar to the national level through development,” says Lalu. 

“BJP ko Delhi ki gaddi pe ek din bhi rakhna Bharat ko tukde tukde karna ke barabar hai,” says Lalu

Amid huge cheers Nitish-Lalu’s first visuals

First Visuals: Nitish Kumar-Lalu Yadav greet each other after victory in #BiharElections pic.twitter.com/nrDuPI32cG

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Lalu back in business

He emerges in front of the media after his initial ‘good morning, we are winning’ remark. And it is not just a good morning, but a good day for Lalu as RJD is likely to win more seats than JD(U). 

Firstpost’s Sarakshi Rai talks to Financial Editor Dinesh Unnikrishan about economic implications of Bihar polls

Karunanidhi congratulates Nitish Kumar

DMK President M Karunanidhi on Sunday congratulated JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar on his win in Bihar polls, saying the victory was “expected” as people of the

state had voted for his “developmental achievements”.

“Kindly accept my hearty congratulations on your landslide victory, as expected. People of Bihar have voted for good governance, for your developmental achievements in economic sphere and for your steadfast commitment to social justice”, he said in his message to Kumar, reported PTI.

“I convey my best wishes to you and your grand alliance”, he said.

Karunanidhi congratulates Nitish Kumar

DMK President M Karunanidhi on Sunday congratulated JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar on his win in Bihar polls, saying the victory was “expected” as people of the

state had voted for his “developmental achievements”.

“Kindly accept my hearty congratulations on your landslide victory, as expected. People of Bihar have voted for good governance, for your developmental achievements in economic sphere and for your steadfast commitment to social justice”, he said in his message to Kumar, reported PTI.

“I convey my best wishes to you and your grand alliance”, he said.

Nitish comes out, waves to crowds amid loud cheers

Nitish Kumar made an appearance for his followers right after winning the elections. He was surrounded by a sea of people, who his bodyguards had a hard time controlling. He was seen waving to the crowd who responded with loud cheers.

Patna: First visuals of Nitish Kumar greeting his supporters after victory in #BiharElections outside his residence pic.twitter.com/dAQ6v8tIKX

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Nitish Kumar waves at his supporters outside his residence in Patna after victory in #BiharElections pic.twitter.com/jkVoY4XGHP

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Bihar defeat will begin downfall of Modi, says Oommen Chandy

The BJP’s Bihar defeat marks the beginning of the downfall of the Narendra Modi government, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said on Sunday.

Chandy telephoned Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, RJD chief Lalu Prasad and Bihar state Congress president Ashok Choudhary and congratulated them on their thumping win in the assembly elections.

“Modi’s strategy of dividing people on communal and divisive lines has fallen flat. The beauty of Indian democracy is its unity in diversity, and Modi has played spoilsport. His government has now become a liability for the country,” a statement from Chandy said.

This is a personal defeat for Modi, says Asaduddin Owaisi

MIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Sunday said the Bihar assembly elections result is a personal defeat of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.  “It’s a personal defeat of Modi as never before a prime minister campaigned so much in an election,” said the Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief, whose party contested six of the 243 constituencies but drew a blank.

“Never before in the history of independent India, we had seen a sitting prime minister getting so involved and addressing more than 35 public meetings,” the Hyderabad MP told reporters at Darussalam, the MIM headquarters.

Stating that people of Bihar have given decisive mandate against communalism and fascism, he congratulated Nitish Kumar and other partners of Grand Alliance.  “The atmosphere in Bihar was that Modi should be defeated. Muslims and other communities had decided to defeat Modi,” IANS quoted him as saying.

Amarpur constituency first confirmed seat for JD(U)

The first confirmed result of the Bihar assembly polls on Sunday went to the Janata Dal-United, with its candidate Janardan Manjhi winning from Amarpur constituency in Banka district, reports IANS.

Manjhhi defeated the BJP’s Mrinal Shekhar by 11,773 votes by securing 73,707 votes, the Election Commission said. Manjhi had also won the 2010 polls.

We respect the mandate given by Bihar people, says Rajnath Singh

We respect the mandate given by the people of Bihar: HM Rajnath Singh #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/5mKvmyMVrO

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

What the Mahagathbandhan win means for Rahul Gandhi

According to Firstpost Senior Editor Akshaya Mishra: 

1. Rahul is likely to gain some credibility as a leader and it would facilitate his quick elevation as the Congress president.

2. He will try to reach out to regional players and forge a national alliance against Modi with the Congress at the head.

3. He will cede space to regional players at the national level and concentrate on states where the Congress is in direct contest with the BJP.

JD(U)+ leads in 171 seats

Now, CNN-IBN reports that JD(U)+ is leading in 171 seats, BJP+ leads in 65.

This is rejection of Modi’s arrogance, says Anand Sharma

Rejection of Narendra Modi and his arrogance, great victory for people of Bihar: Anand Sharma, Congress #BiharResults

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Campaigning bandh kijiye,bhashan bandh kijiye aur kaam shuru kijiye: Rahul Gandhi

A slap on the face of those who indulge in hate politics, says Kejriwal

Ravi Shankar Prasad welcomes people’s mandate in Bihar. Congratulates Nitish-Lalu duo.

Campaigning bandh kijiye,bhashan bandh kijiye aur kaam shuru kijiye-Rahul Gandhi #BiharResults on PM pic.twitter.com/cEe33PUT1M

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

These are internal discussions,we can't talk about these issues publicly-Rahul Gandhi on whether Congress will be part of Bihar Govt

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

A smiling Rahul Gandhi addresses the media, supports Nitish as CM

Diwali comes early for Congress, Rahul and the Grand Alliance in Bihar

“Aaj kya sawal hain aapke?”

“I would want to congratulate workers of JD(U) and RJD. It is a win of brotherhood and a win over everything that’s evil. I have a message for Modi ji. The nation has told BJP and its leaders that you cannot make the Hindus and the Muslims of the nation fight and win an election based on that. The arrogance that has seeped into BJP and Narendra Modi should be shunned now. This election should be an eye-opener. We need love, brotherhood and development.”

“Nitish has the full support of Congress as Chief Minister of Bihar.”

“It has been a year and the nation wants you to start the car and step on the accelerator. Otherwise, like in Bihar, the people will open the gate of the car and throw you out,” Rahul’s message for Narendra Modi. 

I want Mr.Modi to tone down his arrogance, it will be good for him and for the nation as well-Rahul Gandhi #BiharResults

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

This is a defeat of hatred,arrogance and anger-Rahul Gandhi #BiharResults

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Want to congratulate all the workers and leaders of Mahagatbandhan-Rahul Gandhi #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/TuSnO5F3lp

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

The country has told Modiji that politics of intolerance will not work: Rahul Gandhi https://t.co/oA2XplAhsa pic.twitter.com/UhAXAEyfQr

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

A slap on the face of those who indulge in hate politics, says Kejriwal

Arvind Kejriwal now attacks Amit Shah and Narendra Modi saying the Bihar poll verdict will teach them a lesson. 

“This mandate proves that people of the country want the Modi government to concentrate on the Centre,” Arvind Kejriwal. 

We hope the package which PM Modi announced for Bihar will be released soon: Kejriwal https://t.co/judekTzSm1 pic.twitter.com/3JtICXELJo

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

This is like a slap on the face of those who indulge in hate politics: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal https://t.co/judekTzSm1

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

Accept verdict given by people of Bihar: Ravi Shankar Prasad

Conceding defeat, Ravi Shankar Prasad congratulates Lalu Prasad Yadav and Nitish Kumar. 

“We humbly accept the verdict given by the people of Bihar,” says Ravi Shankar Prasad.

Amit Shah concedes defeat

श्री नीतीश कुमार और श्री लालू प्रसाद यादव को बिहार विधानसभा चुनाव जीतने पर बधाई देता हूँ।

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 8, 2015

हम बिहार की जनता के जनादेश का सम्मान करते हैं |
नई सरकार को मेरी शुभकामनाएं कि वह बिहार को विकास के पथ पर आगे ले जाए |

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 8, 2015

Grand Alliance leading in 166+ seats

Ok, now lets take a look at the figures again: CNN-IBN shows a lead for the Grand Alliance in 166+ seats and BJP is leading in 66+ seats.

Where are the congratulatory notes for Lalu?

Senior Editor Akshaya Mishra says: Lalu Prasad is the man who everyone, including some of his alliance partners, wants close yet at arm’s length at the same time. Rahul Gandhi was not keen on being seen with him during the campaigning. Others tried to keep a safe distance from him. Now that the victory of the Grand Alliance is only a matter of official announcement, it’s Nitish Kumar who’s receiving all the congratulatory messages from political friends and foes on Twitter. Most seem to be keeping a safe distance from Lalu even now. Interestingly, he is the man with the highest number of seats in the state and he is going to be the king-maker in Bihar.

People aren’t able to buy daal, BJP kept talking about meat: Sitaram Yechury

People are not willing to endorse assault on democratic secular order: CPM leader Sitaram Yechury after BJP loss in #BiharElections

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

People are making their own 'Acche Din': Sitaram Yechury

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

People aren't able to buy daal, BJP kept talking about meat. What world were they living in, Marie Antoinette?: Sitaram Yechury

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

Check out these new posters of Nitish in Patna

New posters of Nitish Kumar and Mahagatbandhan put up in Patna #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/rR79k8l7nm

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Bihar loss won’t affect national politics: Siddharth Nath Singh

BJP leader Siddharth Nath Singh tells Firstpost Chief Reporter Debobrat Ghose

If the Mahagathbandhan finally wins, it will be due to the decision and wisdom of the people of Bihar who chose to vote for the caste factor rather than the BJP’s development plank. The BJP fought against the Grand Alliance – where all the opponents JD (U), RJD and Congress, who earlier fought against each other gathered under one roof to take on BJP.

I agree that the BJP has got lesser number of seats, but it won’t have any impact on national politics. As before this election, the situation in the country and inside the Parliament will remain the same – our PM Narendra Modi is the leader and in opposition the same alliance led by “hurdle” Rahul Gandhi. If BJP finally loses in Bihar it doesn’t mean it’s a set back for BJP. Instead, now the economic development will gain pace. The NDA government has been able to touch 7% growth rate and it’ll go for 8% now. The BJP’s agenda is economic development.

But, the worst part is that this opposition – the Mahagathbandhan -first divided people on the basis of caste and religion, then they divided animals like cow for Hindus and next they may divide fruit – coconut for Hindus and date palm (Khajoor) for Muslims.

We’re going to review the results in our party meeting.

Chanakya aoplogises, will others follow suit?

Firstpost senior editor Akshaya Mishra says: Today’s Chanakya has apologized for failing to predict the Bihar polls. It’s a nice gesture. If only others did the same! Most of them predicted a close fight between the two big alliances. And it was finally a completely one-sided affair. Chanakya, which have made close to accurate predictions earlier, had given the BJP-led NDA 155 seats. In India, apologizing doesn’t come naturally to anyone, least of all organizations. All other in the exit poll business must do some introspection about their methodology and sincerity while surveying people. It’s a question of their credibility.

Victory of love over hate, tweets Rahul Gandhi

This is a victory of unity over divisiveness. Humility over arrogance. Love over hate. A victory of the people of Bihar

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 8, 2015

Congratulations to the people of Bihar, to Nitishji,to Laluji,to the Congress leaders &karyakartas & the Mahagathbandhan on this victory

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 8, 2015

Sad stuff: BJP returns their PM Modi faced sweets

BJP cancels order placed for sweets, firecrackers#ABPResults #BiharResults https://t.co/OTSuyq5Cgd pic.twitter.com/fZLBTZ8oZF

— ABP News (@ABPNews) November 8, 2015

Today’s Chanakya apologises for wrong exit poll results 

Today’s Chanakya on Sunday apologised for the wrong exit poll predictions for the Bihar Assembly elections. They had predicted that the BJP+ alliance will get 155 seats. 

#TCExitPoll
We sincerely apologise all our friends & well wishers for not able to predict Bihar.
Congratulations to the winning alliance.

— Today's Chanakya (@TodaysChanakya) November 8, 2015

Financial Editor Dinesh Unnikrishnan discusses economic implications with Bindisha Sarang

Check out this dedicated supporter

A Mahagathbandhan supporter ends his 100 km vijay yatra in Patna. Image and caption by Sandipan Sharma

And the celebrations continue

Sign of politics ahead… Congress RJD celebrate under Nitish Kumar gaze. Image and caption by Sandipan Sharma

This is why we need to exit from exit polls…

Unhappy with the manner exit polls are conducted, Firstpost senior editor Akshaya Mishra expresses his reservations against them: Exit polls are a whole load of rubbish. The consistency with which they fail to predict even wave elections is amazing indeed. One exit poll gave the BJP-led NDA 155 seats. The result was almost the opposite. All others were predicting a neck-and-neck contest between the Nitish Kumar-led Grand Alliance and the BJP-led NDA. There were even talks of a hung assembly. Exit polls are not an exact science and some margin of error is expected in what they come up with. But to miss a wave is plain ridiculous. They failed in Delhi where it was grand sweep by the Aam Aadmi Party; that was the case with Uttar Pradesh too.  It’s time we junked them or treated them as a source of entertainment.

Nitish Kumar thanks PM Modi, Sonia Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee

Just received a phone call from the Prime Minister congratulating me.

— Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) November 8, 2015

Thank you Sonia Ji for your congratulatory phone call.

— Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) November 8, 2015

Thank you Sonia Ji for your congratulatory phone call.

— Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) November 8, 2015

.@narendramodi thank you Modiji

— Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) November 8, 2015

BJP is not a permament loser, says Shahnawaz Hussain

With BJP heading for a defeat in Bihar senior party leader Shahnawaz Hussain spoke to Firstpost chief reporter Debobrat Ghose at the party headquarters in New Delhi as to what it means for the party.

“BJP is a cadre-based party and it fought unitedly. It’s the beauty of democracy that sometimes one party wins and sometimes the other. But that doesn’t mean, the party that loses is a permanent loser. It’s like a cricket match. Yesterday, Indian team won over South Africa, whereas earlier it had lost. Same is here in election – it’s like a match. If a team wins, credit goes to the captain and the entire team and if it loses we can’t say about the same team that all were useless. If BJP finally loses in Bihar, it doesn’t mean that its leader and our PM Narendra Modi or the BJP is incapable. In the early hours, we were ahead. What you see now is not the final result, it’s only the trend. Things may change. If the Grand Alliance finally wins, it’ll be due to the voters of Bihar, who chose to go for the caste arithmetic of Lalu-Nitish, rather than BJP’s development plank," Hussain said.

PM Modi congratulates Nitish Kumar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi calls up JD(U) leader Nitish
Kumar, congratulates him on #BiharPolls victory. PTI pic.twitter.com/erpDsbfe4f

— Firstpost (@firstpost) November 8, 2015

JD(U)+ now leads in 161 seats

And even as the reactions are coming in lets go back to the numbers for a bit. CNN-IBN shows JD(U)+ leading in 161 seats and BJP+ leading in 70 seats.

Mamata Banerjee congratulates Nitish

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee congratulates  Nitish Kumar, Lalu Prasad on Bihar win, calls it victory of  tolerance, defeat of intolerance.  

Heartiest congratulations to Nitish, says Omar

Heartiest congratulations on a well deserved victory @NitishKumar sahib. Your victory will prove critical for the nation in the days ahead.

— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) November 8, 2015

Crackers take over Patna!

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: Don’t know about Pakistan, but crackers are bursting all across Patna.

What this loss means for PM Modi

According to Firstpost Senior Editor Akshaya Mishra

1. Life becomes difficult for him at the centre with a re-alignment of political parties taking place.

2. His policies become open to questions and his silence on the fringe groups come into question too.

3. With a rejuvenated opposition around, it becomes difficult for him to clear important pending bills. The consequence may be felt on the economy.

Lost because of alliance arithmetic: BJP concedes defeat

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday conceded defeat in the Bihar elections.  “BJP lost only because of alliance arithmetic,” union minister Prakash Javadekar told the media.

BJP vice president Prabhat Jha added: “We failed to understand people’s mind. We will have to change our election strategy.”

Nitish political hero, says Shiv Sena

The Shiv Sena is always ready to slam the BJP. And even as the Nitish Kumar-led Mahagathbandhan is headed for Bihar victory, Sena called him as “a political hero” after he led his alliance to a victory in assembly elections.

“This is a big win for Nitish Kumar. He has emerged as a political hero,” Sena’s Sanjay Raut told the media. The Sena is the junior partner in the BJP-led government in Maharashtra.

BJP slips in Patna’s urban seats

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: The myth of the BJP being the party of choice of urban voters has been shattered in Patna. In this predominantly urban seat, the BJP is leading in just three out of 14 seats. BJP stalwart Nand Kishore Yadav is also caught in a tough battle in Patna Sahib. Is this because of the Shatrughan Sinha effect?

Arvind Kejriwal congratulates Nitish Kumar

इस एतिहासिक जीत के लिए बहुत बहुत बधाई हो नीतीश जी

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 8, 2015

Modi tried to spread hatred in Bihar, says Rabri Devi, thanks people of Bihar

Rabri Devi congratulates all the parties of Mahagathbandhan. “I congratulate and thank the people of Bihar. I am very happy. I thank people of Raghopur too. The people of Bihar worked really hard,” she says. 

“Wherever he went, Lalu Prasad Yadav got messages from the people of what they thought,” says Rabri Devi. 

“Modi tried to spread hatred in Bihar. He kept saying jungle raj. But now people are repenting voting for him,” she said. 

She said, “Jungle raj abhi NDA bandh karega. The public won’t leave our side.”

What this win means for Nitish Kumar

According to Firstpost Senior Editor Akshaya Mishra

1. His aura grows and he becomes a potential challenger to  Narendra Modi  at the national level.

2. He becomes the rallying point for regional forces, even the Congress, and begins the long preparation for the 2019 general elections.

3. He may keep himself to Bihar, given the experience of the futility of earlier experiments with national front of disparate forces and the difficulty of managing an overbearing Lalu.

JD(U)+ leads in 158 seats

And as leaders come out and make comments and celebrate the victory of the Mahagathbandhan, lets look at the latest number: JD(U)+ leads in 158 seats and BJP leads in 75 seats and others in 10 seats.

KC Tyagi celebrate Mahagathbandhan win

JDU leader KC Tyagi celebrates after trends show Mahagatbandhan leading #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/PTFz3h3tjH

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Firstpost Editor BV Rao chats with Executive Editor Ajay Singh

Victory of Bihar’s swabhiman: JDU

Senior JD(U) leader Chotu Singh, who is leading a victory March at Beer Chand Patel Road, told Firstpost, “It is the victory of Bihar’s swabhiman (self-respect). Yeh burai pe achai ki jeet hai (it is the victory of good over bad).”

“It is the win of works over jumlebazi (a term coined by BJP chief Amir Shah that means making statement). We are thankful to people of Bihar for acknowledging the development works done by Nitish Kumar,” Singh said.

It is a loss for Modi, Amit Shah, says Sharad Yadav

JD(U) chief Sharad Yadav says that it is the loss of not just the BJP, but also for Narendra Modi and the BJP as well. 

“All the BJP leaders were in Bihar, hence it is a loss for all of them, " says Sharad Yadav.

Misa Bharti celebrates

We are winning 150 seats: Misa Bharti, RJD #Nov8WithArnab https://t.co/3QjyPbbBKY

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) November 8, 2015

Now, JD(U)+ leads in 158 seats

Now CNN-IBN figures show BJP+ leading in 76 seats and JD(U)+  leading in 158 seats. 

“People don’t trust BJP anymore,” says Congress spokesperson.

And we are here to stay! RJD workers celebrate in Patna

JDU workers celebrate at party headquarters on the Veerchand Patel Path in Patna as it increasingly becomes clear that the Mahagathbandhan is going to retain ower in the state. Image by Tarique Anwar/Firstpost.

Kahe pare ho chakkar mein, koi nahin hai takkar mein: JD(U) workers 

And as the the Mahagathbandhan is heading for a win, Firstpost Senior Editor Sandipan Sharma says: The Patna roads are resonating with the beats of dhol and chants of boisterous slogans. Ecstatic workers are shouting: Kahe pare ho chakkar mein, koi nahin hai takkar mein. With Nitish heading towards a landslide win, they have reasons for their bravado.  

And celebrations break out outside RJD office

Celebration outside RJD Office in Patna after trends now show Mahagathbandhan leading #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/Gg5jR8MLUo

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Will get 150 seats, says Sharad Yadav

 The Grand Alliance was poised to win the battle for the Bihar assembly, Janata Dal-United (JD-U) leader Sharad Yadav said on Sunday. “We will get about 150 seats,” Yadav told the media as officials counted the votes polled to elect a 243-member assembly.

“It was a very tough fight, it was a straight fight,” he said.

Celebrations, no holds barred at JDU office! And yes, even the pets are having a good time

JD(U) supporter Pravin Kumar,58, turned up with his pet dogs — Fakhru, Kalu Bhai and Stephy — and a monkey Rani at the party’s office in Patna. Surprised at what the dogs have to do with counting of votes! This is what Kumar told Firstpost, “I have two sons who are settled in Bangalore. Therefore, these four pet are like my children. I have taken them here because they should also be part of the celebrations.”

Image by Tarique Anwar/Firstpost

CNN-IBN gives it to JD(U)

CNN-IBN has called the elections. It reports that the JD(U) has crossed the half-way mark and will be forming the next government.

JD(U)+ leading in 138 seats

If CNN-IBN figures are anything to go by, BJP+ leads are reducing with the party leading only in 88 seats. Meanwhile, JD(U)+, according to the news channel, is leading in 138 seats.

The Election Commission has put out its latest update at 9.58 a.m. The trends are officially out for 58 seats and both the BJP and RJD are leading at 23 seats each.   

Sharad Yadav congratulates the people of Bihar 

I congratulate ppl of Bihar, I think we will get close to 150 seats-Sharad Yadav,JDU on trends showing Mahagatbandhan leading #BiharResults

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

RJD winning more seats than JD(U)

While most people had said that if the Mahagathbandhan doesn’t win, Lalu Prasad Yadav will be to blame. But CNN-IBN reports that the RJD is winning more seats than the JD(U). 

It is a good morning indeed for Lalu

Now, Mahagathbandhan ups celebrations as it races close to the magic number

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: Celebrations have now broken out in the Mahagathbandhan camp. Suddenly workers have converged over party offices on Beer Chand Patel Road, waving flags, beating drums and thumping their chests.

The BJP office, where celebrations had begun prematurely, is emptying out fast.

Did BJP celebrate too early? Looks like JDU has stepped on the gas

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: The game is changing in Bihar. Just about an hour ago the BJP workers had started bursting crackers when early trends predicted a win for NDA. But the JD(U) alliance started catching up fast and after staying neck and neck for a few minutes raced ahead. Current trends show JDU alliance ahead in 124 seats and BJP alliance in 91.

There is a stunned silence in the BJP offices now.

The BJP seems to have been let down by its allies. While the BJP is maintaining a healthy strike rate, its allies HAM, RLSP and LJP are struggling. Out of the 83 seats the allies were allotted, they are likely to win less than 20 percent.

For Nitish, however, RJD has been the man of the match. Early trends suggest RJD winning more than JDU.

Amit Shah calls for BJP meet

Does this mean the BJP is expecting defeat? Because a huddle usually signifies bad news.

FLASH: Amit Shah calls BJP Parliamentary board meeting at 12 noon tomorrow

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Confusion confounded

CNN-IBN puts JD(U)+ way ahead of BJP+ with leads in 124 seats. BJP leads in 91 seats.

CNN-IBN numbers show BJP+ leading in 91 seats JD(U)+ in 119 seats

And as Barkha Dutt has a change of heart, CNN-IBN shows BJP+ leading in 91 seats and JD(U)+ leading in 119 seats.

Celebrations in JDU office in Patna after the party took a lead. Tarique Anwar/Firstpost

Change of heart by Barkha Dutt?

Is it back to neck and neck in Bihar. Nail biting finish

— barkha dutt (@BDUTT) November 8, 2015

Absolutely confused! Different channels showing different numbers in Bihar. Now several channels forecasting @NitishKumar govt !

— barkha dutt (@BDUTT) November 8, 2015

No, not in race for CM post, says Ravi Shankar Prasad

Although NDTV has called the election in BJP’s favour Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that he is not in race for the post of chief minister.

Too early?

While NDTV has already gone ahead and announced victory for the BJP+, CNN-IBN shows JD(U)+ leading in 104 seats with BJP+ behind in 91 seats. 

Calling an election this early is not something that is usually done in Indian elections.

Barkha Dutt and NDTV call it for BJP

NDTV calls the election. BJP and allies all set to form the government in bihar with 145 to 149 seats #BiharBlockbuster

— barkha dutt (@BDUTT) November 8, 2015

According to the Election Commission latest update at 9.28 pm, RJD is now slightly ahead of BJP by leading in 7 seats while BJP leads in 5.

JD(U)+ still ahead, leading in 92 seats

Meanwhile in terms of numbers, BJP is leading in 86 seats wgule JD(U)+ is leading 92 seats.

Will AIMIM manage to win a seat?

Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM debuts on Bihar trend charts. Now leading in Baisi, Seemanchal (9:20am) #Nov8WithArnab

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) November 8, 2015

Jitan Ram Manjhi and Tejashwi trailing 

FLASH: #BiharResults Jitan Ram Manjhi trailing in Makhdumpur seat by 278 votes after 1st round of counting

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

#BiharResults: Tejashwi Prasad Yadav trailing from Raghopur seat. pic.twitter.com/C3kCxwpVX2

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) November 8, 2015

BJP orders 100 kgs of sweets now: Skeptical much?

The BJP ordered 100 kg of laddoos and firecrackers after initial trends of the vote count on Sunday showed that the party was leading in the Bihar assembly elections, according to PTI.  The party had not placed the orders earlier but quickly changed its mind as the initial trends showed that it was ahead of its rivals.

But that is still 100 kgs less than what the JD(U) and RJD ordered.

Considering this sweet ordering trend we can say that either the BJP is scared or the JD(U) and RJD have over estimated their results. 

And here’s some more celebration scenes from the BJP office

Celebration outside BJP Office in Patna after early trends show NDA leading #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/ELytB6C3zI

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

JDU)+ takes the lead in 79 seats, BJP+ in 72

Now, CNN-IBN puts JD(U)+ ahead with leads in 79 seats while BJP is falling behind in 72 seats.

They say the slowest are the surest! Here’s the latest official EC update

This is the official position on the numbers at 9:04 a.m. as per the Election Commisssion updates.

Wait and watch, says RJD leader

Initial trends were postal ballots, now the gap is reducing.Wait and watch-Prem Chand Gupta,RJD #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/oLxUuhSy8m

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

The counting of votes for the just concluded Bihar Assembly Election 2015 is on but the JDU headquarters in Patna wears a deserted look despite the party making up after initial hiccups. Tarique Anwar/Firstpost

Dead heat CNN-IBN puts BJP, JD(U) neck and neck

Their leads show BJP+ leading in 67 seats and JD(U)+ in 66 seats

RJD workers sloganeering in Patna. Tarique Anwar/Firstpost

NDTV puts BJP+ way ahead

Though most channels including CNN-IBN (sister concern of Firstpost) are showing JD(U)+ catching up with BJP + after initial hiccups, NDTV is showing a completely different picture with BJP+ leading 76 against JD(U)+ 41. 

According to this BJP is gaining 26 seats, while JD(U)+ is losing 28 seats

BJP’s racing ahead, but JDU is fast catching up

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: According to initial trends on ETV Bihar, the JDU is catching up fast with the BJP. The TV channel says the BJP alliance is now ahead in 56 and Mahagathbandhan is leading in 43. The game is not over yet.

BJP is already celebrating

And we are back up. ANI tweeted out pictures of BJP celebrations. But they may be a little premature. 

Celebrations outside BJP Office in Patna after early trends show NDA leading #BiharResults pic.twitter.com/vgvGafenAS

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Technical glitch:

The excitement of counting seems to be too much for our system to tackle. Hence we are experiencing some technical glitches. But please do hang in there for the latest updates. 

As of now BJP is leading in 51 seats, JDU) is catching up leading in 41 seats

Bihar Minister Shyam Rajak leading from Phulwari Sharif

#BiharResults : Latest EC data: Bihar Minister Shyam Rajak leading from Phulwari Sharif, BJP's Nand Kishore Yadav leading from Patna Sahib

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Update: Coming up shortly…BV Rao, Editor of Firstpost, chats up Ajay Singh, Executive Editor on the sketchy early trends, what they mean and more…

BJP continues to have the upper hand leading in 33 seats

Lalu’s son may have a clear lead in his constituency, but on the whole the BJP is still leading over all in 33 seats. JD(U) is quite far behind leading in 16 seats.

Lalu’s younger son leads from Raghopur seat

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: Early trends indicate a lead for Lalu Prasad Yadav’s younger son Tejashwi from Raghopur constituency. His brother is contesting from adjoining Mahua.

BJP leads in 31 seats, JD(U) in 11

Now BJP is leading in 31 seats and JD(U) is leading in 11. However, experts suggest that these numbers could change dramatically. 

CNN-IBN reports that there is a clear trend has emerged which shows that BJP has done better in Phase 4 and 5. 

Whatever the reason, as of now the BJP leaders can think of bringing out those laddus.

Postal ballots give slight edge to NDA in early trends

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: So the early trends have started coming after the counting of postal ballots. They indicate an edge to the NDA. Most of the postal votes are from army and paramilitary personnel stationed outside Bihar.

The early leads are not an indication of the actual trend but they may have given a lot of confidence to the NDA supporters.

JD(U), RJD keep 200 kg of laddus ready; BJP prefers to wait till later

Firstpost senior reporter Tarique Anwar reports from Patna: Ahead of Bihar Assembly Election results today, a confident Rashtriya Janata Party (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav visited his party office at Beer Chand Patel Road and greeted the media. He reiterated that the Grand Alliance (JD-U, RJD and Congress coalition) is going to comfortably win the polls with by securing 190 seats.

“Morning shows the days. We are winning elections by two-third majority,” he said and replied to media questions about how he spent last night, “I had a good night’s sleep, can’t you see it?”

Meanwhile, the mood in the BJP office remains cautious. Its leaders and spokespersons have claimed a landslide victory but they won’t disclose anything on the celebration plans. “The government is changing because people, especially the youth, have voted for change. We are confident of winning 150 plus seats,” BJP spokesperson Azfar Shamshi told Firstpost.

When asked about the orders placed by the saffron party for flowers, sweets and firecrackers, he said, “We will celebrate two Diwalis today: one will be traditional and the other will be in celebrations of our victory. We have not so far placed any order because everything is available round-the-clock in the market. Laddu bhi aa jayega, phool mala bhi aa jayega aur patakhe bhi jalaye jayenge (We will get sweets, flowers and garlands and firecrackers will also go off once the trend starts coming).”

On the other hand, the atmosphere inside the JD(U) and RJD offices is all gung ho. All its workers and office-bearers look excited. Both the parties have placed orders for more than 200 kg of laddus (a sweet), firecrackers and booked a band party.

“Our ground report suggests that we are getting more than 140 seats and therefore, we are set to celebrate our victory,” said Santosh Kushwaha, JD(U)’s youth wing chief. JD(U) spokesperson Bishan Kumar Bittu says the party has arranged “Youth Bomb” which will have 200 explosions in air in one go.

Satisfied with the outcome of Bihar elections, says Nasim Zaidi, CEC

We are very satisfied with the outcome of Bihar elections,we had lot of challenges-Nasim Zaidi,CEC pic.twitter.com/TByPyGwfaR

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

Wrong to say EC did not act on hate speeches and poll violations, suitable and swift action was taken-Nasim Zaidi,CEC on #BiharResults

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

People flock outside BJP office in Patna as counting begins

BJP now leads in 13 seats, JD(U) in 7

BJP continues to have the upper hand so far leading in 13 seats, JD(U) is catching up leading in 7 and others in one.

Counting of votes for Bihar polls on, 14,580 officials on duty

Patna: Counting of votes for all the 243 seats in the Bihar Assembly elections is now on .

The votes were locked in 62,780 EVMs with 14,580 officials on duty for the counting process in Patna and other districts, officials said.

The fate of 3,450 candidates, including 272 women, will be decided during the day.

The five-phase elections started on 12 October and ended on 5 November.

PTI

BJP leads in 11 seats, JD(U) in 4

CNN-IBN reports that Jitan Ram Manjhi is leading in Makhdhumpur constituency. Meanwhile the BJP seems to be having the upper hand leading in 11, JDU) 4, others 1

Chirag Paswan plays safe, says polls not referendum

“Battle for Bihar is not a referendum on PM Modi,” LJP leader Chirag Paswan tells CNN-IBN.

BJP leads in 3, JD(U) in 1

The first leads are in. Professor Sandip Shastri says that they are from Bhagalpur and Bhojpur region. BJP leads in 3 seats, JD(U) in one, according to CNN-IBN.

Real leader of Grand Alliance not Nitish, but Lalu: BJP

BJP leader GVL Narasimha Rao says that Nitish Kumar has offered himself as a mask. 

“He is not the real leader of the Grand Alliance. The real leader is Lalu Prasad Yadav,” Rao says.

#BiharKiDiwali, Jitan Ram Manjhi trends on Twitter

Right as the counting begins, #BiharKiDiwali and Jitan Ram Manjhi are trending on Twitter. And it is Diwali indeed with party offices bustling with activity, one what would have otherwise been a lazy Sunday morning.

Not nervous, says incumbent CM Nitish Kumar

Even as the counting begins, Nitish Kumar, according to NDTV, has said, “I am not nervous, have done this many times.”

Counting to begin shortly

And as leaders from several parties are already claiming victory, counting will begin in precisely 2 minutes.

Jitan Ram Manjhi says he is ready to be CM

Surprised that Lalu ji only said 190 seats and not 210 or more.In reality Mahagatbandhan has failed-Jitan Ram Manjhi pic.twitter.com/VsII9VyP2M

— ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2015

The JD(U) party office in Patna

In contrast to the almost empty BJP office, the JD(U) office on the same road in Patna sees workers and office bearers enjoying ‘bhuja’. Image courtesy: Firstpost Senior Reporter Tarique Anwar

Has the ale formula backfired?

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: One of the popular slogans in this election was ‘Khao peeo noch ke, vote dena soch ke.’ (Snatch whatever they offer, but think before voting).

But the khao, peeo philosophy has given rise to concern in some party offices. There are now genuine fears that some of their voters may have feasted so much on the previous night on the manna from politicians that they may have slept through the polling day.

Call it the law of unintended consequences!

A deserted BJP party office in Patna

  Nearly deserted BJP state headquarters at Beer Chand Patel Road in Patna. Image by Firstpost Senior Reporter Tarique Anwar

What will happen to Nitish if Mahagathbandhan loses

Firstpost Senior Editor Akshaya Mishra’s take:

1. It would be a massive setback, from which a political comeback may be impossible.

2. His JD(U) may disintegrate with legislators trying to find their own ways to survive.

3. The possibility of a challenge to Narendra Modi at the centre ends.

More people queue up for advance booking of Prem Ratan Dhan Payo than outside party offices in Patna

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: On a lighter note, the crowds outside party offices this morning are nothing compared to the queues for advance booking of Salman Khan’s forthcoming film Prem Ratan Dhan Payo.

Outside Patna’s Elphinstone, Mona and Regent cinema halls near Gandhi Maidan, youth start pouring in to grab a seat before the theatres get packed.

The conversations in the queues, interestingly, are a mix of cinema and politics. Nitish will win; no Modi will win, the youngsters argue before unanimously agreeing that whatever be the fate of politicians, Salman Khan’s success is guaranteed.

What will happen to Nitish if Grand Alliance wins?

If indeed, the predictions of Yogendra Yadav come true here’s what will happen to Nitish accroding to Firstpost editor Akshaya Mishra: 

1. His aura grows and he becomes a potential challenger to  Narendra Modi  at the national level.

2. He becomes the rallying point for regional forces, even the Congress, and begins the long preparation for the 2019 general elections.

3. He may keep himself to Bihar, given the experience of the futility of earlier experiments with national front of disparate forces and the difficulty of managing an overbearing Lalu.

Not good morning, Lalu should have given a good bye instead, says BJP

Firstpost senior editor Sandipan Sharma says: The bitterness between the two alliances has grown to such bizarre levels that even innocuous words and salutations are leading to bickering.

This morning, a bleary eyed Lalu Prasad Yadav woke up–or did he even sleep?–to wish Bihar a good morning. Subah bata rahi hai shaam kaisi hogi, he said cryptically.  

The local BJP has found even his hope for a good morning unacceptable. He should have bid good-bye to Bihar instead, some local BJP leaders are thundering in front of TV cameras stationed outside party office.

Pollster Yogendra Yadav predicts Grand Alliance win

Firstpost editor Sandipan Sharma says: Meanwhile, exit polls and predictions continue to pour in from everywhere. On the eve of the results, pollster-turned-politician Yogendra Yadav has stuck his neck out to predict a win for Nitish Kumar-led Mahagathbandhan.

Yadav says the Grand Alliance is headed for a clear, perhaps even comfortable, majority. If my reading is correct, its tally could go well beyond the highest forecast of 130 seats.

You can read his prediction here .

And here’s what will happen to Lalu if the Mahagathbandhan loses

According to Firstpost Editor Akshaya Mishra: 

1. It will be just another bad day in office. He will take the blow on the chin and prepare for another fight. The RJD will still rally around him.

2. The RJD disintegrates because he won’t be seen as a bankable leader anymore. Many legislators may choose to defect at the opportune moment. This is a distinct possibility in case of a hung verdict.

3. His equation with Nitish heads south as they don’t need each other any more. He is most likely to be seen as the reason behind the defeat.

What will happen to Lalu if Mahagathbandhan wins

Lalu has already claimed that the Grand Alliance will win. In case it does, here’s what Firstpost Editor Akshaya Mishra says:

1. He gets the controlling stake in the government even though Nitish Kumar stays at the helm. He is expected to remote control the government.

2. His family members get rehabilitated in the government and may emerge as a rival power centre to Nitish.

3. He makes another bid for a coalition of regional forces to take on the BJP led by  Narendra Modi .

How Patna is waking up on counting day

Even as the counting will begin at 8 am, our editor Sandipan Sharma who is on the ground gives us a glimpse of the scene at the party offices:

On Patna’s Beer Chand Patel Road, where all the action would be concentrated this morning, there are early signs of this being a very important morning in Bihar’s history. Though the sun has just started peering out of a cloudy sky, there is a steady trickle of party workers and security staff towards the offices of the three major parties that are contesting the polls.

Just opposite the BJP office, which is just a few yards from that of RJD, a local TV channel has put up a big screen for the results. Party workers and those passing through the road have begun to gather near the screen with cups of tea bought from the stalls nearby.

It promises to be a morning of lots of tea cups as the suspense builds in entire Bihar and the heartbeats rise in party offices on Beer Chand Patel Road.

Good morning, we are winning: Lalu 

It is counting day and even as the media was gathering outside his house RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav has already come out and given a quote. 

'Good morning, we are winning,' says Lalu Yadav tells mediapersons ahead of counting of votes in #Bihar pic.twitter.com/sY1z1vy1S3

— NDTV (@ndtv) November 8, 2015