The NDA has registered a sweeping victory in Bihar, and the BJP is now in a position to form the government on its own. With the party crossing the majority mark independently, the BJP no longer appears dependent on Nitish Kumar for government formation. Here are the five major factors that powered the NDA’s impressive win in Bihar:
1. The Rs 10,000 Direct Benefit That Changed the Game
The NDA’s decision to deposit Rs 10,000 into the bank accounts of women voters turned the entire contest in its favour. This move consolidated women voters solidly behind the BJP and the NDA. As a result, the percentage of women voting increased significantly across the state.
2. Good Governance and Nitish Kumar’s ‘Soft’ Image
Despite political ups and downs, Nitish Kumar’s long-standing reputation as a stable, development-focused, and governance-oriented leader helped the NDA. His early tenure still shapes public perception, reinforcing the narrative of “good governance,” which benefitted the alliance.
3. The Silent but Powerful Women Vote Bank
Government schemes like the liquor ban, women’s reservation in Panchayats, and the bicycle scheme created a loyal and silent women’s support base for the NDA. This segment has consistently voted in favour of the alliance and emerged as a strong, dependable vote bank—again proving decisive in this election.
4. Strong Support from EBCs and Mahadalits
The NDA successfully consolidated Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) and Mahadalit communities. This social coalition expanded the alliance’s reach far beyond the RJD’s traditional MY (Muslim-Yadav) vote bank. The broader social base gave the NDA a crucial advantage in tightly contested seats.
5. Ground-Level Organisational Strength and Booth Management
Both the BJP and JDU have robust organisation at the booth level. Their micro-management—from mobilising voters to dividing opposition votes—played a major role. Efficient booth-level coordination ensured high turnout among NDA supporters.
Women Voters and Modi Factor Amplified the Impact
Exit poll studies show that women voters turned out in record numbers—and overwhelmingly backed the NDA. Many supported policies like the liquor ban and women-centric welfare schemes, including 50% reservation in Panchayats, the cycle program, and livelihood initiatives.
Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s national popularity and welfare programs (DBT transfers, LPG connections, housing schemes) directly benefitted youth, women, and low-income families. This translated into solid electoral support for the NDA.
