The Dilemma of India’s Sixth Election: Will Modi’s Win Mean Democracy Slip or Economic Progress?

India is currently in the midst of a six-week voting period, with many speculating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will emerge victorious in the parliamentary contest. However, there are concerns about what the outcome could mean for the country and its democracy.

If the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) performs well, it may further its agenda of promoting Hinduism in public life. Opposition parties worry about potential democratic backsliding, including threats to press freedom.

The BJP’s campaign manifesto focuses on boosting India’s fast-growing economy, which faces challenges such as low investment levels, high youth unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure, particularly in rural areas where a large portion of the population resides. The economy has received a boost from Western businesses looking to diversify their investments away from China and support from the US in countering Beijing’s expanding global influence.

The outcome of this election will have a significant impact on India’s future direction and its relations with other global powers. All 543 seats in India’s lower house of Parliament, the Lok Sabha, are up for grabs with the Prime Minister being selected by whichever party or coalition can secure a majority.