India: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday celebrated what he described as a “resounding” mandate for his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies as early trends indicated a sweeping win in the Bihar state assembly elections.
Although counting is still underway and the complete results may only be announced on Saturday, partial figures released by the Election Commission suggest the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is on track to secure a decisive majority in the 243-member assembly.
Bihar — home to around 130 million people and considered one of India’s most politically significant but economically challenged states — was seen as a crucial test of Modi’s appeal among poorer voters.
Calling the emerging outcome a “victory of good governance,” Modi said the people’s mandate strengthened the alliance’s commitment to deliver development in Bihar. “This overwhelming support will inspire us to serve with renewed dedication,” he wrote on social media.
Bihar remains the only major northern state where the BJP has never governed on its own. While the party is still unlikely to cross the majority mark independently, it is projected to become the single largest party, surpassing its key partner Janata Dal (United).
Together with smaller allies, the NDA appears set to claim roughly three-fourths of the seats, according to preliminary trends.
Political analysts say such a result would give Modi a significant boost ahead of several important state elections next year. It also offers the prime minister renewed political momentum amid recent economic pressures, foreign policy challenges, and tensions with neighbouring Pakistan and the United States.
NDTV Report: Modi Predicts Trouble Ahead for Congress
In a separate address at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, NDTV reported that Modi used the Bihar results to launch a sharp critique of the opposition Congress, predicting internal divisions in the party.
“The Congress criticises institutions like the Election Commission, makes baseless allegations such as ‘vote theft’, and continues to divide society along religious and caste lines,” he said.
Modi urged Congress allies to be cautious, warning that the party “lacks a positive vision for India’s future.”
