Exit polls for the Jharkhand assembly elections suggest a likely win for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Matrize predicts the NDA securing 42-47 seats, crossing the halfway mark of 40 and ensuring a clear mandate. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-Congress alliance is projected to gain 25-30 seats.

Chanakya Strategies also gave the NDA an edge, forecasting 45-50 seats for the BJP-led alliance, while the JMM-Congress bloc could secure 35-38 seats. Times Now-JVC exit poll projected a tighter race, with the NDA likely to win 40-44 seats and the JMM-Congress alliance 30-40. A poll of three exit polls suggests the BJP alliance might win around 45 seats, while the JMM-Congress bloc could claim 33 seats.

Polling Phases and Vote Counting

Jharkhand conducted voting in two phases, on November 13 and November 20, while Maharashtra held a single-phase poll on November 20. The counting of votes for both state elections is scheduled for November 23.

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Political Reactions to Exit Polls

BJP’s Optimism

BJP leaders expressed confidence in the exit poll predictions. BJP leader RP Singh stated that the BJP-NDA is set to receive the blessings of the people in both Maharashtra and Jharkhand, hoping for voter turnouts above 70%. Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla emphasized the public’s faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, claiming that BJP’s performance will surpass exit poll expectations.

JMM and Opposition’s Rebuttal

Opposition leaders dismissed the exit poll predictions. JMM leader Manoj Pandey insisted that actual results would defy exit polls, confidently predicting over 55 seats for the alliance. Congress leader Subodh Kant Sahay argued that the JMM-INDIA bloc has historically dominated areas in the second phase of polling and accused the BJP of failing to campaign on substantive issues. JMM candidate Mahua Maji echoed these sentiments, recalling the inaccuracy of exit polls during the Lok Sabha elections and expressing confidence in the INDIA alliance forming the government in Jharkhand.

High Stakes and Intense Campaigning

The election has seen a charged atmosphere, with both alliances projecting confidence. For the BJP, this election is another test of Prime Minister Modi’s continued influence, while for the opposition, it is an opportunity to regain political ground in the state.

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