Panaji: The ruling BJP was ahead in five seats, while the Congress was leading in one seat, as per initial counting trends available on Thursday for eight seats in the 40-member Goa Assembly.

The independents were ahead in two seats, according to the website of the Election Commission of India.

The counting of votes began at 8 am for the Assembly elections held on February 14.

The ruling BJP is seeking a third straight term in power in the coastal state, while the opposition Congress is hoping for a clear mandate to avoid the fiasco of 2017.