Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has declared victory in the recent parliamentary elections, albeit with a notable decline in its electoral gains. According to preliminary results issued by the Election Commission, the BJP captured around 240 seats, a significant drop from the 303 seats it won in 2019. Despite these results, the tripartite alliance led by the BJP still achieved a parliamentary majority, as the coalition managed to secure enough seats to surpass the required threshold.
Modi, in his third consecutive term, marked this victory as historic, emphasizing the public's continued trust in the BJP-led coalition. However, the reduction in the number of seats from previous elections presented an unexpected result, which stands in stark contrast to Modi’s pre-election prediction of securing more than 400 of the 543 seats in the Lok Sabha. The opposition, primarily the Congress Party, made surprising gains, signaling significant public sentiment against the current administration.
The election outcome underscores a burgeoning fear among India's more than 200 million Muslims, who have experienced increased violence and persecution in recent years. Human rights organizations report that the ruling Hindu nationalist party has perpetuated an environment of discrimination, with many Muslims fearing being reduced to 'second-class citizens' in a predominantly Hindu state. Increased incidences of abuse and targeted actions reflect an escalating tension under Modi’s leadership.
Noteworthy has been the inception of hardline policies, including the inauguration of a large temple dedicated to the god Ram on the site of an ancient mosque demolished by Hindu extremists. The fear of pursuing more such divisive policies remains high among Muslims and other minorities, who view the BJP’s agenda as an existential threat to India’s secular fabric. Modi’s government also faces criticism for its handling of Kashmir, where policies have resulted in significant dissatisfaction among the local population.
Economically, Modi has transformed India into the world’s fifth-largest economy, with notable projects including the assembly of iPhones, the development of a confident middle class, and significant infrastructure improvements. However, the benefits of this economic uplift have not reached all sections of the population. High unemployment rates, particularly among the youth, and a stark income disparity continue to challenge the nation.
Western governments, while courting Modi for his economic reforms and India's crucial role in global issues, have largely refrained from critiquing his administration’s domestic policies. India’s geopolitical importance, particularly as a counterbalance to China and a strategic ally in climate action, contributes to Modi’s favorable perception on the international stage.
- The recent elections were marked by Modi’s intense campaign efforts, where he often used divisive rhetoric referring to Muslims as 'infiltrators.' Such statements have fueled concerns among minority communities about further marginalization under the BJP’s tenure.
- Despite the opposition making significant gains, the BJP’s alliance partners, Telugu Desam Party and Janata Dal, have pledged their support, ensuring Modi’s continuation as the prime minister. However, the overall voter turnout and sentiment have reflected a clear message against Modi’s expected landslide.
- Modi’s declaration of an ambitious goal to make India a developed nation by 2047 remains a central theme of his economic policy. Infrastructure development, technological advancements, and economic reforms are key components of his vision. Yet, experts argue that addressing youth unemployment and equitable distribution of economic benefits are critical to achieving this vision.
- The international response to Modi’s victory has been mixed, with leaders like Joe Biden and Olaf Scholz maintaining strategic alliances while largely avoiding direct criticism of his domestic policies. This diplomatic stance underscores India's importance in global politics, especially in balancing power dynamics with China and fostering climate change initiatives.
