As the vote counting for the 2024 Indian general elections begins, all eyes are on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is widely expected to secure a historic third term in office. Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been dominant in Indian politics since sweeping to power in 2014, and his popularity remains high despite facing criticism on various fronts.
The election results will not only determine the future of India's leadership but also have far-reaching implications for the country's economic and social policies. Modi's emphasis on economic growth and national security has resonated with many voters, while his critics argue that his government has marginalized minority communities and eroded democratic institutions.
If the 73-year-old Modi wins, it would only be the second time an Indian leader has retained power for a third term after Jawaharlal Nehru, the country’s first prime minister.
Some three hours into the counting, early leads reported by the Election Commission showed Modi’s Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party comfortably ahead of the main opposition Congress party.
The preliminary figures showed the BJP ahead in 239 constituencies out of 542 and winning one uncontested race. Congress was leading in 96 constituencies.
For the BJP to win a landslide victory, it needs to make gains in wealthy southern states where it has traditionally had less sway. Voters in those areas typically don’t speak Hindi as a first language or respond positively to the BJP’s Hindu-nationalist agenda, instead preferring regional parties who compete to take care of their economic interests.
The BJP would also need to expand its presence in strongholds like Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state. The ruling party won 62 out of 80 seats there in 2019.
Indian markets opened down around 3 per cent this morning in an apparent response to the underwhelming BJP performance, having closed last night on all-time highs following the exit poll figures.
The count is still in its relatively early phases and numbers are expected to solidify over the course of the day.
Regardless of the outcome, these elections represent a critical moment in India's political landscape and will shape the country's trajectory for years to come. The challenges facing India – from economic inequality to regional conflicts – require strong leadership and a clear vision for the future. The world is watching as India decides its next chapter.
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