New Delhi, June 4, 2024: The announcement of the Lok Sabha election results for 2024 drew intense global attention on Tuesday, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s National Democratic Alliance (NDA) saw a surprising decline in its parliamentary majority. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), after a decade of dominance, witnessed significant losses, while the opposition INDIA bloc made an unexpected comeback. Despite these setbacks, the NDA, projected to secure over 290 seats, still surpassed the 272-seat majority threshold. Here is a summary of how the international media covered the NDA’s unexpected performance.
BBC
The BBC highlighted the stunning setback for Modi, stating, “India’s Modi faces stunning blow as alliance heads for reduced majority.”
The report emphasized how the INDIA bloc’s ‘Save Democracy’ campaign resonated with voters. Key issues like the cost of living, high unemployment, and fears of constitutional changes that might disadvantage marginalized groups were pivotal in swaying public opinion.
CNN
CNN reported on Modi’s declared victory despite the BJP’s shock losses. The news outlet noted that the BJP now needs coalition partners to govern, having fallen short of the supermajority required to amend the constitution. This outcome was contrary to the BJP’s expectations of a sweeping victory.
Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera’s coverage focused on the influence of Modi’s allies following the BJP’s significant electoral losses. The article underscored the BJP’s defeat in critical states and constituencies, including Ayodhya, where Modi had inaugurated a controversial Hindu temple earlier this year. The piece also pointed out the discrepancy between exit polls and the actual results.
The Guardian
The Guardian pointed out the BJP’s failure to secure an outright majority. The paper highlighted the resurgence of the opposition INDIA bloc, led by Rahul Gandhi’s Congress party, which exceeded expectations by leading in over 230 seats. The subdued celebrations at BJP headquarters reflected the unexpected scale of their losses.
Newsweek
Newsweek’s article, “Indian Opposition Celebrates as Modi’s BJP Faces Shock Election Setback,” detailed the opposition’s effective strategy focusing on local issues and themes of unity and justice. The surprising scale of the BJP’s losses, contrary to predictions of a sweeping victory, was a key theme in their coverage.
Overall, the global media painted a picture of a significant electoral shift in India, marking a more challenging path ahead for BJP despite their continued hold on power.
