Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Pricks Challengers with Focus on Hot-Button Issues in World’s Biggest Election

The Indian prime minister, Narendra Modi, and his challengers are ramping up their campaigns as the country votes in the second phase of the general election. With almost one billion people eligible to vote, the focus has shifted to hot-button issues such as religious discrimination, affirmative action, and taxes.

Modi, seeking a third consecutive term, is highlighting his economic record, welfare measures, national pride, and Hindu nationalism to appeal to voters. On the other hand, his challengers have formed an alliance and are promising greater affirmative action, more handouts, and an end to what they see as Modi’s autocratic rule.

In the recent round of voting, more than half of the seats were contested in the southern states of Kerala and Karnataka, as well as the western state of Rajasthan. Kerala, in particular, has historically been a stronghold for opposition parties, with Modi’s BJP struggling to make significant inroads.

The campaign has become increasingly heated, with Modi and the Congress party clashing on communal issues. Modi has accused the opposition of favoring minority Muslims and planning to dilute affirmative action, while Congress has denied these charges and accused Modi of using divisive language to distract from real issues like unemployment and rural distress.

The high temperatures in some parts of the country have also affected voter turnout, with concerns raised about the impact of the heatwave on participation. Despite the challenges, Modi has urged voters to turn out in record numbers, emphasizing the importance of their voices in strengthening democracy.

As the election continues in phases, the focus remains on the key issues that will shape the future of India and its leadership.