World
India’s Surprising National Election Results
Explore the unexpected outcomes of India’s recent national election, uncovering the surprises, trends, and implications that emerged from the democratic process in the world’s largest democracy.
India’s national election season was filled with anticipation as hundreds of cable news outlets predicted a landslide victory for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, the actual election results on June 4 shocked many as Modi’s party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (B.J.P.), fell short of expectations, winning only 240 seats with the help of coalition partners, instead of the predicted 400.
The Influence of Mainstream Media
Many analysts attribute the discrepancy between predictions and results to the extensive control Modi had over the mainstream media. During his term, news channels became proponents of his leadership, portraying him as an invincible force that no opposition could rival. Criticism or in-depth analysis of Modi’s policies was virtually nonexistent, further solidifying his image as an unassailable leader.
Media Landscape Under Modi
Under Modi’s administration, reporters at established news outlets aligned themselves with his Hindu-centric vision of India, sidelining any critical voices. Independent bodies that scrutinized his policies faced backlash, with some even being subjected to raids or intimidation tactics.