India’s General Elections 2024: The World’s Largest Democracy Prepares for Another Landmark Poll
The electoral landscape of the world’s largest democracy, India, is set to unfold once again as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) gear up for another grueling nationwide election. With over 960 million eligible voters, India’s General Elections 2024 promise to be a significant milestone in the democratic journey of the South Asian giant.
The Election Commission of India announced on Saturday that the elections will commence on April 19, 2024, and are expected to span over seven phases across the country, concluding on June 1. This monumental exercise involves voting for 543 seats in the lower house of parliament, known as the Lok Sabha, with two additional seats being nominated by the President. The results will be declared on June 4.
Under Modi’s tenure, India has witnessed rapid economic growth and is poised to become a 21st-century powerhouse. However, the Prime Minister’s controversial policies and perceived disregard for democratic institutions have sparked concerns among critics and minority communities.
The opposition Indian National Congress (INC), which has governed India for much of its 77-year post-independence history, aims to regain national significance through the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). The alliance, however, faces internal strife and has yet to announce its prime ministerial candidate.
Despite these challenges, Modi’s popularity remains undiminished. His diplomatic visits to countries such as Australia and the United States have cemented India’s image as a global power, while technological advancements like India’s lunar rover mission and its first dedicated solar mission have further solidified the nation’s reputation.
The contentious Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir consecration, which marks a departure from India’s secular values, has been both criticized and praised. While some view it as an affront to the country’s democratic principles, others hail Modi for his commitment to the majority Hindu faith and his leadership.
In 2019, Modi’s BJP secured an absolute majority with 303 seats in parliament, marking a significant victory over the Congress party. With a population that surpassed China’s in 2021 and is projected to reach more than 1 billion by the next decade, India’s upcoming elections will undoubtedly shape the political landscape of the world’s most populous democracy.
With the electoral process now underway, the focus shifts to the campaigns, alliances, and debates that will unfold in the coming months. As India braces for another monumental election, the world watches with bated breath to see which direction its democratic journey will take next.