Exit Polls Show Modi Poised for Bihar Win After Tough Year
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves to supporters during his roadshow in Patna, ahead of assembly elections in Bihar state on Nov. 2.
Photographer: Sachin Kumar/AFP/Getty ImagesPrime 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.
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.