Nitish continues to be favourite, Bihar rejects Modi's BJP (Update)

The grand alliance emerged victorious in the Bihar Assembly polls with the people yet again reposing their faith in Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar despite an aggressive campaigning by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the BJP-led NDA.

RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav scripted a spectacular comeback after multiple setbacks in the last few elections with the party leading in 80 seats. As per latest reports, the Janata Dal (United) is leading in 71 seats.

Nitish Kumar and Lalu Yadav today hugged and celebrated as their grand alliance scored a spectacular victory. The RJD chief made it clear that Nitish would be the Chief Minister while the JD (U) leader said that the people have completely rejected efforts to divide them.

The verdict has come as a major setback to Prime Minister Modi, who was optimistic about the BJP's chances in the state post the dismal show in Delhi where it had to face a humiliating defeat at the hands of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

The BJP leadership was, however, quick to accept the mandate of the people. The BJP needed a win in Bihar to boost Prime Minister Modi's chances of building the parliamentary strength he needs to push through key reforms.

Top BJP leaders, including party chief Amit Shah, are meeting in Delhi to analyse the reasons for the loss.

The BJP-led NDA, which contested on 243 seats, is leading in just 60 seats as of now.

The polling in Bihar took place in five phases beginning on October 12 and ending on November 5.