Throughout the six-week marathon election, several key issues have dominated the campaign trail in India. One of the prominent themes has been the country's deep religious divisions and concerns about Islamophobia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has actively embraced his Hindu nationalist stance, positioning himself as a leader chosen by a divine entity.
In a statement made in May, Modi expressed his belief in being a messenger sent by God, attributing his life experiences to a higher purpose. This assertion has drawn criticism from Subir Sinha, the director of the SOAS South Asia Institute, who highlighted the dangers of elevating a political leader to a celestial status. Sinha emphasized the importance of holding leaders accountable in a democratic system, cautioning against the removal of accountability that comes with claims of divine mandate.
Aside from religious and identity-based issues, economic concerns have also been pivotal in shaping the election discourse. Sinha noted that bread-and-butter issues such as employment and inflation have significantly influenced voter sentiments. Modi's campaign has heavily relied on his economic track record, showcasing a period of robust growth during his tenure.
Despite the positive economic indicators, experts warn of substantial challenges awaiting the Indian economy in the coming years. The next government will face the daunting task of generating millions of jobs for a predominantly impoverished population. Recent reports indicate that youth unemployment rates in India surpass global averages, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive economic reforms and job creation initiatives.
