Indians have begun voting in the last round of a six-week-long national election that serves as a referendum on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decade in power. This election is considered one of the most significant in India's history, with Modi aiming to become only the second Indian leader to secure a third term. The final round of voting is taking place in 57 constituencies across seven states and one union territory, completing polling for all 543 seats in the lower house of parliament.
With nearly 970 million eligible voters, this election has seen over 8,300 candidates vying for office. Most polls indicate that Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party are leading over the opposition alliance, led by the Congress party. Results are expected to be announced by the end of the day on Tuesday.
Modi's campaign has focused on economic progress and promises to uplift the poor, aiming to transform India into a developed nation by 2047. However, the campaign has taken a divisive turn in recent weeks with polarizing rhetoric targeting the country's Muslim minority.
While Modi has enjoyed immense popularity since coming to power in 2014, his rule has also faced criticism for attacks and hate speech against minorities, particularly Muslims. The opposition alliance, led by Rahul Gandhi of the Congress party, has challenged Modi's Hindu nationalist politics and capitalized on growing economic discontent among voters.
As the election progressed, concerns over unemployment and rising food prices have come to the forefront, making the contest appear closer than initially anticipated. Modi's BJP has sought to expand its influence beyond traditional strongholds and consolidate support among the Hindu majority.
Analysts suggest that the lack of a major national issue in this election has given Modi's political challengers an opportunity to sway voters based on local issues. The outcome of this election will shape India's political landscape for the next five years.
