Hemant Soren’s JMM-led alliance is set to retain power in Jharkhand, leading in 56 of 81 assembly seats, while the BJP-led NDA trails with only 23 seats. The JMM’s focus on the ’Adivasi’ card and sympathy for Soren after his arrest proved effective.

RANCHI: It is Abua Raj, Abua Sarkar (own state, own government) for Jharkhand as Chief Minister Hemant Soren led INDIA alliance register a stunning victory in t

Adverse results will also hit reputation of Shivraj Singh Chouhan & Himanta Sarma. Party erred by going for one-size-fits-all approach strategy, rues a BJP leader.

Defying exit poll predictions, the JMM is on the way to forming a government for a third term, with the alliance leading in nearly 50 seats, way above the halfway mark of 42.

Jharkhand held assembly elections in two phases, on November 13 and 20, for all 81 seats. Both the JMM-led alliance and the BJP-led NDA are optimistic about forming the government. Exit polls have predicted a possible edge for the BJP.