New Delhi: In the wake of a historic 64.66% voter turnout in the first phase of Bihar’s Assembly elections — the highest in the state’s history — Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has declared a resounding victory for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), predicting a “mahajay” which will shatter previous records.
Speaking exclusively to ABP News on Friday, Chouhan asserted that the enthusiastic participation, particularly from women and youth across 121 constituencies in 18 districts, signals unwavering support for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s government. “The NDA will form the administration with a massive majority,” he proclaimed, dismissing Opposition attempts to sow doubts about Kumar’s leadership. “Women are not being bribed but empowered with respect and self-reliance — should they not receive dignity and independence?”
Chouhan reserved sharp criticism for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, whose allegations of voter list irregularities he branded a “hydrogen bomb” turned dud.” He accused Gandhi of undermining India’s democracy abroad while levelling baseless vote-theft claims at home, driven by impending defeat. “Gandhi seeks to weaken the Constitution because he knows he’s losing. This is mere posturing ahead of the route.”
The minister lauded the Election Commission’s seamless conduct amid the festive polling atmosphere. This was where women’s queues often outstripped men’s and first-time young voters displayed remarkable zeal. With the second phase set for November 11 and results on November 14, Chouhan’s buoyant forecast intensifies the high-stakes showdown between the NDA and the INDIA bloc, underscoring Bihar’s evolving political pulse.