In a closely contested election, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), secured 293 seats in the Lok Sabha, marking their third consecutive term. The Opposition INDIA alliance put up a significant fight, winning 232 seats, but the final mandate was less decisive than anticipated.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi on June 4, celebrated the NDA’s victory. He noted that this was the first time since 1962 that a government had returned for a third term after completing two terms. Despite the triumph, the results revealed that the BJP fell short of an outright majority, signalling potential reliance on alliance partners.
Global media outlets quickly reacted to the election results:
The Washington Post: Described the outcome as an “unexpected repudiation” of Modi’s leadership, calling it a “stunning setback” that pierced his “aura of invincibility.” For the first time in years, Modi seemed vulnerable.
The Guardian: Highlighted that the anticipated landslide victory for the BJP did not materialize, characterizing the results as an “unexpected blow” to Modi. The paper pointed to a nervous BJP campaign that leaned on polarizing religious rhetoric and noted the INDIA bloc’s resilience.
BBC: Emphasized Modi’s reduced majority, framing the election as a referendum on his decade in office. The mood in BJP offices was described as “sombre,” acknowledging the fierce and sometimes vitriolic campaign waged by both sides.
The New York Times: Declared that Modi’s “aura of invincibility” had been shattered. The results were seen as “unexpectedly sobering,” marking a sharp reversal in Modi’s transformational tenure. The NYT speculated on whether Modi’s personal influence was crucial in the BJP’s ability to scrape by or if his brand had peaked.
Deutsche Welle: Quoted political scientist Gilles Verniers, who labeled the election a “personal setback” for Modi. The future path for the BJP, whether towards political conciliation or further autocracy, remains to be seen.
The Telegraph: Referred to the results as a “surprise loss of majority” for Modi, noting the muted atmosphere at the BJP victory party compared to the jubilant celebrations of 2019.
As international leaders continue to send their congratulations, the global media consensus suggests that while Modi and the NDA secured another term, the election results have significantly altered the political landscape in India.
