Tejashwi Yadav Slams Exit Polls, Calls Them ‘Surveys Conducted Under Pressure’

Patna, November 12: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav has launched a sharp attack on media organisations over the exit polls following the Bihar Assembly elections, alleging that the surveys were conducted "under pressure" and lacked transparency.

Addressing a press conference at his residence in Patna on Wednesday, Yadav questioned the credibility of the polls and accused certain media outlets of being influenced by political powers.

"This kind of survey has been conducted under pressure. This is the same 'Godi Media' which once claimed to have captured Islamabad and Karachi. The same media even ran fake news about actor Dharmendra ji's death, and BJP leaders like Yogi Adityanath offered condolences," Yadav remarked sarcastically.

Exit Polls Under Scrutiny

Yadav criticised the methodology of exit polls, saying they failed to disclose details like sample sizes or regional representation. He alleged that some results were being "dictated" by top political figures, including the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) and Amit Shah.

"These exit polls do not capture the ground reality. The people of Bihar have voted in record numbers to bring change," he said.

Citing official data, the RJD leader pointed out that voter participation increased significantly compared to the 2020 Assembly elections, with 72 lakh more votes cast this time - roughly 29,000 additional votes per constituency. According to Yadav, this surge in turnout is a clear signal of public discontent with the Nitish Kumar government.

Past Errors and Political Concerns

Tejashwi Yadav also reminded reporters of earlier exit poll inaccuracies, citing Jharkhand, West Bengal, and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where "predictions of over 400 seats" proved wrong.

He further voiced concerns about alleged attempts to delay vote counting or intimidate voters through flag marches in some districts. However, he asserted that the Mahagathbandhan was fully prepared to guard against any irregularities at counting centres.

High Voter Turnout Fuels Confidence

With a 67% turnout - the highest since 1951 - Yadav said the record participation reflects the "desire for change" among Bihar's voters.

"We are confident of a decisive victory. The people of Bihar have voted for employment, dignity, and change. No manipulation can alter that," he said, urging party workers to remain vigilant until the final results are declared.