The Kosi region has spoken loud and clear this Bihar election. Known for its unpredictability, Kosi’s voters have turned out in record numbers. For the first time in over a decade, voter turnout in Madhepura, Saharsa, and Khagaria crossed 67 percent—up by five percent from the previous two polls. This translates to nearly 1.9 lakh additional votes across 38.23 lakh registered voters, averaging 15,000 extra votes per constituency. In Bihar’s close contests, this shift can easily decide winners and losers.
Three major factors seem to drive this surge. First, Nitish Kumar’s NDA government, in power since 2017, now includes Chirag Paswan, whose earlier split weakened them in 2020. His return might have energized voters.
Second, despite limited campaign time, both alliances fought aggressively. The NDA highlighted fears of “jungle raj,” while the Grand Alliance countered with corruption charges. This fierce narrative battle may have mobilized voters on both sides.
Third, Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraj movement influenced the debate. His push for better governance and social welfare forced rivals to make stronger promises. With migration and employment now central issues, voters seem determined to shape a brighter future for Bihar.
