The political temperature in Bihar soared on Thursday as the state voted in the first phase of its high-stakes assembly elections. Polling was held across 121 of Bihar’s 243 constituencies, recording a turnout of 60.13 percent by 5 pm. Top leaders including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, RJD patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadav, his son Tejashwi Yadav, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, and LJP chief Chirag Paswan were among the early voters who urged the public to exercise their democratic right.

Sharing a family photo with inked fingers, Lalu Yadav took a swipe at the ruling alliance, saying, “The roti must keep turning on the tawa, or it burns. Twenty years is too long! Now, for the youth government and a new Bihar, a Tejashwi government is extremely necessary.” Tejashwi Yadav, the Grand Alliance’s chief ministerial face, has focused his campaign on youth employment, promising one government job for every household—a proposal that has sparked widespread debate.

The ruling NDA, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the BJP, is banking on its long record in governance and the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The BJP launched a high-decibel campaign backed by Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several BJP chief ministers. Despite speculation over Nitish Kumar being sidelined, the BJP leadership reaffirmed its support for him as the coalition’s chief ministerial candidate. NDA leaders exuded confidence that they would “return with a record-breaking majority.”

Also Read: JNUSU Election 2025 Voting Ends with Strong Turnout; Results on November 6

Meanwhile, the Opposition Grand Alliance, led by the RJD and supported by the Congress and Left parties, is hoping to ride an anti-incumbency wave. Tejashwi Yadav’s relentless campaign has resonated with younger voters and migrant labourers, focusing on unemployment, corruption, and healthcare. The Congress, however, has drawn criticism for its subdued presence, with Rahul Gandhi largely missing from the campaign after an early joint rally with Tejashwi.

Adding intrigue to the contest is poll strategist Prashant Kishor’s entry through his Jan Suraaj Party. Contesting all 243 seats, Kishor has positioned himself as a reformist alternative, vowing to transform Bihar’s governance. His presence has triggered speculation about splitting opposition votes. With unemployment, migration, and corruption dominating voter concerns, the outcome of this election could redefine Bihar’s political landscape. The results of this crucial first phase are expected to set the tone for the concluding phase and signal which way Bihar’s winds are blowing.

Also Read: Jubilee Hills Bypoll Turns Into Political Firestorm: War of Words Erupts Between Congress, BRS, and BJP