In a reversal of early trends, the JDU-led grand alliance is surging ahead of the BJP-led NDA and is leading in more than 140 seats, well above the half-way mark needed for forming the government in Bihar.
The Nitish Kumar-led grouping is leading in 146 of the 243 seats as counting of votes progressed fast in the five-phased elections that concluded on November 5.
The rival alliance has been projected to get 83 seats and the 'Others' eight.
Initial trends on television channels projected the BJP to be in the lead.
In the last assembly polls in 2010, the JDU had won 115 seats while BJP won in 91 when both parties had an alliance. RJD had got 24 and Congress 5, contesting separately.
