Bihar Election 2020 – Complete Guide and Results

The Bihar Assembly polls of 2020 were one of the most watched elections in India. Voters headed to the booths in October, and the outcome reshaped the state’s politics for the next five years. In this guide we break down the numbers, the main players and what the new government is likely to focus on.

First off, voter turnout was impressive – about 57% of the 58 million eligible voters cast their ballots. That shows a healthy interest in the state’s future despite the usual challenges of weather and travel. The election was fought mainly between the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) fronted by its chief, Dr. Lalu Prasad Yadav. A few smaller parties and independent candidates also made a dent, but the contest boiled down to these two camps.

Key Highlights and Winners

The NDA emerged as the single largest alliance, winning 125 out of 243 seats. The BJP itself secured 74 seats, while its ally Janata Dal (United) – JD(U) – got 43. On the opposite side, the RJD bagged 75 seats, and its allies, the Indian National Congress and others, added another 19. This gave the NDA a clear majority, allowing Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of JD(U) to retain his position with BJP support.

Some surprise results stood out. In the Mahnar constituency, a young BJP candidate defeated a veteran RJD leader, signaling a shift in voter preferences among younger demographics. Meanwhile, the RJD managed to hold onto its strongholds in districts like Patna and Begusarai, showing that the party still has a solid base.

Women candidates also made progress – 27 women won seats, up from 19 in the previous assembly. This reflects a growing demand for gender balance in Bihar’s politics.

What the Results Mean for Bihar

With the NDA in power, the next few years will likely see continued focus on infrastructure, education and law‑and‑order. The BJP’s influence means more alignment with central government schemes, such as improved road connectivity and digital services. On the other hand, the RJD will serve as a strong opposition, pushing for agrarian reforms and better social welfare programs.

Economically, the state hopes to attract more investment by simplifying land acquisition and offering tax incentives. The new government has already hinted at boosting renewable energy projects, especially solar farms, to create jobs and address power shortages.

For everyday citizens, the biggest changes could be in health and education. The NDA plans to upgrade primary schools, launch new skill‑training centers and expand health‑care facilities in rural areas. If these promises materialize, they could improve the quality of life for millions.

Of course, challenges remain. Law‑and‑order issues, especially in the districts with higher crime rates, will test the administration’s resolve. Water scarcity and flood management are also critical, given Bihar’s monsoon patterns.

Overall, the Bihar Election 2020 set a clear direction: a coalition government aiming for development while the opposition keeps social justice on the agenda. Keep an eye on how the policies roll out in the next year – they’ll shape the state’s growth story for a long time.