Ranchi: Hemant Soren's Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led INDIA alliance is poised to retain power in Jharkhand, securing a clear lead in 50 seats of the 81-member state assembly, according to the Election Commission's latest data.

The ruling alliance, comprising the JMM, Congress, and RJD, capitalized on the support of tribal voters and sympathy for Hemant Soren, who has been facing legal troubles. The JMM is leading in 31 seats, Congress in 14, and the RJD in four. In contrast, the BJP-led NDA, which ran an aggressive campaign focused on ousting "infiltrators" from the Santhal Parganas region, appears to have fallen short, leading in 29 seats.

Hemant Soren is leading in the Barhait constituency by over 17,000 votes. However, his wife, Kalpana Soren, who played a crucial role in rallying support for the JMM during her husband's legal challenges, is trailing in the Gandey seat.

Key figures in the BJP include state president Babulal Marandi, leading in Dhanwar, and CP Singh, ahead in Ranchi. Meanwhile, prominent Congress leader and minister Banna Gupta is trailing behind JDU’s Saryu Roy in Jamshedpur West.

Former Chief Minister Champai Soren of the JMM is inching closer to victory in Seraikela, while Leader of Opposition Amar Kumar Bauri is trailing in Chandankiyari. AJSU Party chief Sudesh Mahto is also trailing in Silli.

Observers credit the INDIA alliance’s success to its focus on tribal welfare, local governance, and a strong campaign led by Hemant Soren. With the alliance projected to win a majority, Hemant Soren is set to continue his tenure as chief minister.