India Prepares for the Largest Democratic Exercise in the World
As India gears up for its extensive general election, the voting process commences this Friday with the first phase. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is vying for a historical third consecutive term, making this election a significant event in Indian politics.
Friday will mark the opening of polls for the first phase of India's extensive general election. This election is significant as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is aiming to secure a rare third consecutive term.
In this historic event, approximately 969 million individuals are eligible to cast their votes. This election is considered the largest in human history, with voting scheduled to take place in seven phases over the next six weeks in the world's most populous country.
The upcoming nationwide vote is seen as one of the most important in recent history. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Modi, is striving for a clear majority to further implement its development and Hindu-nationalist agendas that have been in place for the past decade.
Under BJP's leadership, India has undergone significant economic and cultural transformations. However, there has also been a shift away from the country's secular roots, which were based on principles of justice, liberty, equality, and secularism, towards a more Hindu-majority focus.
The BJP's manifesto focuses on creating jobs, implementing anti-poverty initiatives like increasing food assistance and housing programs, and promoting national development, especially for women, the poor, farmers, and youth.
Indian Prime Minister and leader of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party Narendra Modi waves to supporters at an election campaign event in Guwahati on April 16, 2024.
Indian Prime Minister and leader of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party Narendra Modi waves to supporters at an election campaign event in Guwahati on April 16, 2024.
Biju Boro/AFP/Getty Images
Modi's vision for India on the global stage includes seeking permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council, bidding for the 2036 Summer Olympics, and aiming to send an astronaut to the moon.
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Challenging the BJP is India’s main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, and its newly formed INDIA alliance of parties.
The opposition bloc is working together to challenge the BJP's control that has lasted for the last ten years.
The Congress party's campaign focuses on offering "freedom from fear" and ensuring the protection of democratic values like freedom of speech, expression, and religion as outlined in the constitution.
Their manifesto highlights a commitment to justice, equity, and welfare. This includes support for civil unions for LGBTQ+ couples, protection of religious minorities, and empowerment of women. They also promise apprenticeship opportunities for young graduates.
The Election Commission in India has placed restrictions on media outlets like CNN, limiting their ability to publish reporting and analysis leading up to and during election days.
Supporters of India's opposition party, Indian National Congress (INC) during the election campaign in Puducherry on April 15, 2024.
Supporters of India's opposition party, Indian National Congress (INC) during the election campaign in Puducherry on April 15, 2024.
R. Satish Babu/AFP/Getty Images
Who is voting?
Voters are currently participating in the election process to choose representatives for the 543 seats in the lower house of parliament, known as Lok Sabha. Additionally, two seats will be nominated by the country's president.
The party that wins the majority of seats will have the opportunity to form a government. They will select one of their successful candidates to serve as the prime minister.
On Friday, voters in 21 states and union territories in India will use electronic voting machines to cast their ballots. Some states are large enough to have voting spread out over seven phases, while others will vote on a single day.
A construction worker carries metal rods during the construction of an elevated water tank in Ajmer on January 30, 2024.
A construction worker carries metal rods during the construction of an elevated water tank in Ajmer on January 30, 2024.
Himanshu Sharma/AFP/Getty Images
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Uttar Pradesh is one of the most politically significant states in India, with a population of 240 million people participating in all seven phases of voting. As India's largest state, it plays a crucial role as a battleground with 80 seats in the Lok Sabha up for grabs.
In addition, the southern state of Tamil Nadu, including its capital Chennai, will also be voting on Friday. The regional Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party and the INDIA alliance will be competing to prevent the BJP from expanding its influence into a region where it has historically faced challenges.
West Bengal, a state with a population of 102 million people and 42 Lok Sabha seats, will also participate in all seven phases of voting, beginning on Friday. The BJP has faced challenges in making headway in the state, as it has been under the long-standing rule of the All India Trinamool Congress and led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, a prominent political figure.
Supporters attend an election rally addressed by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu state, M. K. Stalin, in Chennai on April 15, 2024.
Supporters attend an election rally addressed by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu state, M. K. Stalin, in Chennai on April 15, 2024.
Altaf Qadri/AP
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a remote archipelago in the Indian Ocean, are inhabited by indigenous tribes living in some of the world's most isolated communities. They will participate in the voting on Friday.
Northeastern states such as Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Nagaland, located near the border with Myanmar, will also be voting. Additionally, parts of Manipur, which has experienced ethnic violence in the past year, will be participating in the elections.
CNN’s Esha Mitra and Rhea Mogul contributed reporting.
Editor's P/S:
The upcoming Indian general election marks a pivotal moment in the country's history. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's bid for a third term amidst approximately 969 million eligible voters highlights the significance of this election. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) aims to continue its development and Hindu-nationalist agenda, while the opposition Indian National Congress and its allies focus on preserving democratic values and protecting minority rights. The outcome of this election will shape India's political landscape and its role on the global stage.
The sheer scale of the election, with voting taking place over six weeks in seven phases, is a testament to the complexity and diversity of Indian society. The participation of remote communities, such as the indigenous tribes in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, underscores the inclusiveness of the electoral process. The presence of multiple political parties and alliances reflects the vibrant and competitive nature of Indian democracy. The restrictions placed on media outlets prior to and during the election period raise concerns about the potential for censorship and the suppression of critical voices.
