Millions of Indians began voting today in a six-week national election.
It is widely seen as a referendum on Narendra Modi, the populist prime minister who has championed an assertive brand of Hindu nationalist politics and is seeking a rare third term as the country's leader.
While most polls predict a win for Modi, it remains unclear who will lead India if the opposition alliance wins the election.
First phase, great response! Thank you to all those who have voted today.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 19, 2024
Getting EXCELLENT feedback from today’s voting. It’s clear that people across India are voting for NDA in record numbers.
He is up against a broad opposition alliance that hasn’t named their candidate for prime minister if they win.
India’s voters will elect 543 members for the lower house of Parliament during the staggered elections that will run until June 1. The votes will be counted on June 4.