Poll Surprise in Bihar Election: Who's Ahead in CM Popularity Stakes? JVC Survey's Big Reveal

As Bihar gears up for assembly elections on November 6 and 11, the latest JVC Poll on Times Now indicates that Rashtriya Janata Dal leader and former deputy Chief Minister of Bihar Tejashwi Yadav has emerged

as the most popular Chief Ministerial face, setting the tone for a high-stakes contest between the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan (MGB).

Tejashwi Tops Popularity Chart, Nitish a Close Second

According to the survey, Tejashwi Yadav leads the race with 33% support, while Chief Minister Nitish Kumar follows closely at 29%. National President of the Lok Janshakti Party Chirag Paswan and political strategist and Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor share 10% each, and deputy Chief Minister of Bihar Samrat Chaudhary trails with 9%. Only 4% preferred another face from the BJP, and 5% opted for someone else from the MGB.

NDA Slightly Ahead in Seat Projections

The poll predicts a close fight between the two main alliances. The NDA is projected to secure 120 to 140 seats in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, while the MGB could bag 93 to 112 seats.Within the NDA, BJP is expected to win 70 to 81 seats, JD(U) 42 to 48, LJP (RV) 5 to 7, HAM(S) 2, and RLM 1 to 2. On the opposition side, RJD could get 69 to 78, Congress 9 to 17, CPI(ML) 12 to 14, CPI 1, and CPI(M) 1 to 2.The Jan Suraaj Party led by Prashant Kishor might open its account with one seat, while AIMIM, BSP, and others are likely to secure 8 to 10 seats.

Vote Share: Neck-and-Neck Contest Between NDA and MGB

In terms of vote share, the NDA is predicted to get 41% to 43%, while the MGB is close behind with 39% to 41%. The Jan Suraaj Party could attract 6% to 7%, and other smaller parties may secure 10% to 11%.

Top Issues Driving Bihar Elections 2025

Voters in Bihar have identified Law & Order (25.9%), Caste Census & Benefits (25.5%), and Unemployment (21.2%) as the top election issues. Meanwhile, Vote Chori claims (17%) and Operation Sindoor (10%) are also shaping the political narrative.Interestingly, 77% of respondents said the Special Intensive Revision issue is no longer relevant.

Bihar Poll Dates

The Election Commission of India has scheduled the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 for November 6 and 11, with vote counting on November 14.