India’s Six-Week Voting Period: Economic Growth or Democratic Backsliding?

India is set to embark on a six-week voting period, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) expected to emerge victorious in the parliamentary contest. However, there are concerns about what the outcome could mean for the country, particularly in terms of democratic backsliding and threats to press freedom.

The BJP’s manifesto focuses on promoting economic growth, with a particular emphasis on boosting India’s already fast-growing economy. The party aims to address 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 Modi’s government has garnered support from the US in its efforts to counter Beijing’s expanding global influence.

All 543 seats in India’s lower house of Parliament, the Lok Sabha, are up for grabs. If Modi’s BJP performs well and secures a majority, it could further its agenda of promoting Hinduism in public life. On the other hand, opposition parties are concerned about potential democratic backsliding and threats to press freedom. The election outcome will have a significant impact on the future direction of the country and its relations with other global powers.