India is gearing up for the world’s largest democratic exercise, as nearly 1 billion eligible voters prepare to cast their ballots in the upcoming general election. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking a third consecutive term, stands at the forefront of this high-stakes political contest.
Overview:
The elections will determine the composition of the 543 contested seats in the Lok Sabha, India’s lower house of parliament, for a five-year term. A party or coalition needs a simple majority of 272 seats to govern. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Modi, secured 303 seats in the previous election, with the Indian National Congress (INC) as the main opposition with 52 seats.
When and Where:
The elections will be conducted in seven phases to ensure adequate security across the vast nation. Polling dates are scheduled for April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. Votes will be counted on June 4.
Voting Process:
India follows a first-past-the-post system, where voters select a single candidate in their constituency, and the candidate with the most votes wins the seat. The voting age is 18, and candidates must be at least 25 years old. With a staggering 968 million registered voters, including 497 million men and 471 million women, a higher percentage of women voters are expected to turn out compared to men.
Key Candidates:
Prime Minister Modi leads the race, supported by his deputy Amit Shah, while Rahul Gandhi represents the main opposition face from the Congress party. Sonia Gandhi, matriarch of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty, is not contesting this election.
Significance:
Modi’s pursuit of a third consecutive term aims to propel India to developed economy status by 2047. His party, the BJP, garners support primarily from Hindus, who constitute 80% of the population. The opposition “INDIA” alliance advocates for democratic and secular values, marginalized communities, farmer welfare, and youth employment.
Stakes:
The election outcome will shape India’s trajectory, with Modi’s vision focused on economic growth and the BJP’s Hindu nationalist agenda, while the opposition seeks to safeguard democratic principles and address socio-economic challenges. Opinion polls predict another resounding victory for the BJP over the Congress alliance.
