Modi celebrates 'resounding' victory for BJP and allies in Bihar election

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday celebrated a “resounding” victory achieved by his party and its allies in a local election in Bihar.

Bihar, the country's poorest state with a population of about 130 million, was seen as a key test for Modi, measuring whether New Delhi’s economic growth is reaching the state’s poorest citizens.

Although vote counting is still underway and the final results may not be announced until Saturday, partial results indicate that Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies are on track to win a clear majority in the state assembly.

Modi described the outcome as a sign of good governance, saying on social media that the public mandate would empower his government to serve the people with renewed commitment.

Bihar is the only state in northern India where the BJP has never ruled alone. While the party is unlikely to achieve a majority on its own this time, it is projected to become the largest party, ahead of its alliance partner Janata Dal (United).

With smaller allies included, the coalition is expected to secure roughly three-quarters of the 243 seats in the state legislature, according to election commission data.