Unexpected Setback for Modi's BJP in Parliamentary Elections

BJP Loses Majority in Lok Sabha

Contrary to the predictions of exit polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) suffered a significant setback in the 18th Lok Sabha elections. The BJP lost 63 seats compared to its 2019 tally, falling 32 seats short of the 272-seat majority. This is the first time since 2014 that Modi will need the support of other parties to form a BJP-led government. However, if existing alliances hold, a coalition led by the BJP is expected to remain in power for another five years.

Statistical Breakdown of Election Results

Florian Zandt of Statista provides a detailed analysis of the election results using data from the Election Commission of India. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), a coalition of conservative and nationalist parties led by Modi's BJP, won a total of 293 seats. On the other hand, the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), led by the center-left Indian National Congress, secured 234 seats. The Congress party itself won 99 seats, an improvement of 47 seats from 2019. Until the formation of a new government, Modi has stepped down as Prime Minister and is expected to serve as a "caretaker".

Coalition Talks Yet to Begin

At the time of reporting, no formal discussions on coalition formation have started. It is anticipated that both the BJP and INDIA will attempt to bring on board political parties whose ideologies may not entirely align with theirs. Potential allies include the Janata Dal (United), a 12-seat winner and current NDA member known for changing sides, and the Telugu Desam Party, an economically liberal, politically nationalist, and regionalist party that won 16 seats.

World's Largest Election

The 18th Lok Sabha election is considered the largest democratic exercise ever held. Spanning 44 days, it saw 642 million Indians, including 312 million women, casting their votes. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, as quoted in The Hindu, reported a voter turnout of approximately 66 percent out of the 969 million registered voters.

Final Thoughts

The unexpected setback for Modi's BJP in the parliamentary elections has certainly stirred the political landscape in India. It raises intriguing questions about the future direction of Indian politics and the potential impact on policy-making. What are your thoughts on these developments? Feel free to share this article with your friends and engage in a discussion. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.