Summary
Vote counting is currently taking place in Bihar, an eastern state in India. The election is a significant test for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is hoping to win with its alliance partner. The election drew a record voter turnout, and results are expected later today.
Key Facts
- Votes are being counted in Bihar, India, where the BJP is aiming to return to power with its partner.
- The election took place in two parts on November 6 and 11, with a voter turnout of 66.91%.
- Exit polls suggest the BJP's alliance might win, but such predictions have been wrong before.
- The election followed a disputed revision of voter lists, which opposition claims might favor the BJP, accusations that are denied by both the BJP and the Election Commission.
- Counting began at 08:00 local time (02:30 GMT) and results are expected by evening.
- Bihar is India's poorest state, with many residents moving elsewhere in India for work.
- The BJP hasn't formed a government alone in Bihar yet; it currently rules with the Janata Dal (United).
- Key opposition figures in the election include Nitish Kumar from JD(U) and Lalu Prasad Yadav from RJD, with Yadav's son, Tejashwi, being the opposition's chief minister candidate.
