Indians vote in huge election dominated by jobs, Hindu pride and Modi (updated)
– India’s multi-day election has begun with nearly one billion eligible voters.
– Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a rare third term, focusing on issues such as growth, welfare, and Hindu nationalism.
– The election pits Modi’s BJP against an alliance of opposition parties promising affirmative action and more handouts.
– Voter turnout on the first day of voting was estimated at 60%, with the highest turnout in Tripura at 80% and the lowest in Rajasthan at 51%.
– The BJP is expected to win a majority, despite concerns about unemployment, inflation, and rural distress.
– Hindu nationalism is a key election theme, with Modi’s government accused of treating minority Muslims unfairly.
– Modi aims to win 370 of parliament’s 543 seats, hoping for a two-thirds majority.
– The opposition alliance has struggled to unite, facing challenges from the government.
– Rahul Gandhi of the Congress party emphasized the importance of the election for Indian democracy.