Indian Prime Minister Modi Claims Victory in Elections Despite Weaker Majority

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared victory for his alliance in India’s general election, securing a majority for the National Democratic Alliance coalition.

Modi’s win marks the second time an Indian leader has retained power for a third term, following Jawaharlal Nehru.

The election, a six-week marathon exercise in the world’s largest democracy, saw over 640 million votes cast.

Despite the NDA winning 286 seats, it didn’t secure a majority on its own, leaving Modi dependent on other parties in his coalition.

The main opposition Congress party considered the election a moral and political victory despite the BJP‘s dominance.

Modi vowed to push his economic and defense agendas forward, emphasizing a promise to bolster India’s economy to become the world’s third largest.

Modi’s tenure has introduced Hindu nationalism to India’s mainstream politics, significantly transforming the nation’s political landscape over the past decade.

Regional leaders including those from Nepal and Bhutan, as well as the White House, congratulated Modi on his coalition’s victory.

Political opponents criticized Modi’s Hindu nationalist policies and highlighted issues such as joblessness and inequality during the election campaign.

Under Modi’s leadership, critics argue that India’s democratic values have faced challenges, while supporters praise his economic initiatives.