Amit Shah Projects NDA Victory in Bihar Elections: 160 Seats Predicted Under Nitish Kumar's Leadership

Union home minister Amit Shah confidently stated today that the NDA will secure 160 out of 243 assembly seats in Bihar, maintaining power for the fifth consecutive time since 2005.

"NDA will win 160 seats in Bihar, form the government with two-thirds majority," Amit Shah declared in an exclusive interview with NDTV CEO and Editor-In-Chief Rahul Kanwal at the NDTV Bihar Power Play event.

According to Shah, Bihar stands as one of the "most politically aware states in the country," and over the past two decades, its citizens have witnessed significant progress.

Read: "Lalu, Rabri Dragged Bihar Backwards, See Where It Is Today": Amit Shah Exclusive

"Ask any young person and they will confirm that law-and-order conditions have improved under Nitish Kumar's government, which has been fundamental to the state's development," he added.

During the event, Shah presented Bihar's progress report, highlighting infrastructure development (four bridges across the Ganga with ten more planned), employment creation (self-employment blueprints and seed money for women), enhanced law and order, and the elimination of Maoist violence.

Read: "We Promised Jobs, Rozgaar": Amit Shah Tears Into Mahagathbandhan Manifesto

"Previous administrations were characterized by discussions about robbery, murder, and looting, whereas today we're talking about progress," he remarked.

The BJP's chief strategist reaffirmed that Nitish Kumar represents the face of the ruling alliance for this election.

"I've clarified this 50 times—we are contesting under Nitish Kumar's leadership. He is the Chief Minister, and we continue to support his leadership," he stated.

However, regarding post-election arrangements, Shah remained noncommittal, saying, "As for the Chief Minister position, there is a constitutional process that will be decided after the polls."

The opposition Grand Alliance—having declared Rashtriya Janata Dal's Tejashwi Yadav as their Chief Ministerial candidate—has been taunting the NDA, claiming their coalition lacks organization since they haven't officially announced their Chief Ministerial candidate.

Speculation exists that the NDA might select a fresh face for the leadership role.

Given that Nitish Kumar has held the top position for nearly 20 years, many believe a complete renewal would benefit the NDA long-term.

Concerns have also surfaced regarding the 74-year-old Chief Minister's health. However, Shah dismissed these worries, noting that Nitish Kumar actively participates in five election rallies daily.