India Commences Voting in Second Phase of Massive Election as Modi and Gandhi Campaigns Intensify
India begins voting in second phase of general elections amid heated campaign rhetoric
India Begins Voting in Second Phase of World’s Biggest Election
India has started voting in the second phase of the world’s largest election, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his opponents focusing on key issues such as religious discrimination, affirmative action, and taxes.
With almost one billion people eligible to vote in the seven-phase general elections that began on April 19 and will conclude on June 1, the stakes are high for Modi as he seeks a third consecutive term. Surveys indicate that he is likely to secure a comfortable majority.
Modi’s challengers have formed a coalition of over two dozen parties, promising increased affirmative action, more government assistance, and an end to what they perceive as Modi’s authoritarian rule.
The voting on Friday will cover 88 out of the total 543 seats in the lower house of parliament, with 160 million people eligible to cast their votes. The polling will take place across 13 states and federal territories in India.
The campaign has intensified since the first phase, with Modi and the main opposition Congress party engaging in heated debates on communal issues. Modi has accused Congress of favoring minority Muslims, attempting to weaken affirmative action, and planning to implement an inheritance tax.
In response, Congress has refuted these allegations, stating that Modi is diverting attention from critical issues such as unemployment, inflation, and rural distress.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, a key figure in the party, is among the 1200 candidates contesting in the second phase. He is seeking re-election from Wayanad in Kerala and faces tough competition from other candidates.
The Election Commission and political parties have expressed concerns about voter turnout due to the summer heat and wedding season in some regions. Efforts have been made to encourage voter participation and ensure a smooth electoral process.
As the voting continues in the coming phases, the outcome of the election will shape the future of India and its leadership.
