Lok Sabha results: Opposition INDIA bloc defies exit polls, challenges NDA lead

The INDIA bloc of opposition parties is fiercely challenging exit poll predictions, making it a tight contest. As of 1:45 PM, the NDA was leading in 302 seats, while the INDIA bloc was ahead in 223 seats. The Congress was leading in 99 seats, and the BJP in 237 seats. Notably, the Congress showed a strong performance in Rajasthan, leading in eight out of 25 seats, and is also making a comeback in Haryana, leading in six out of 10 seats.

Contrary to exit polls favouring the BJP in West Bengal, the Trinamool Congress is not only maintaining its stronghold but also gaining ground. In Kerala’s Thrissur, BJP’s Suresh Gopi is leading, potentially breaking the party’s Lok Sabha drought in the state.

The ruling alliance’s ability to expand into new territories and fulfil its ‘400 paar’ slogan is at stake. Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA bloc aims to overturn the NDA’s tally, relying on “people’s polls” over exit polls. As of 1:25 PM, the Election Commission reported the BJP leading in 242 seats and the Congress in 95, nearly doubling its 2019 tally.

The Samajwadi Party is also a significant player this election, leading in 36 seats compared to just five in 2019, with the Trinamool Congress holding strong leads in 31 seats.