India's General Election Kicks Off: Modi Seeks Third Term Amid Democracy Concerns

India's general election with over 969 million eligible voters began on April 11, making it the world's largest democratic exercise.

Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party aims to secure a third term amid allegations of democracy undermining since their 2014 win.

Voting started at 102 constituencies and will continue in seven phases until June 1.

The Indian general elections are coming to an end, with results to be announced on June 4.

Analysts predict a third term in power for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP party, based on widespread popularity and survey results.

However, political opponents accuse the government of manipulating the election process and eroding India's democracy.

Allegations include using state tools to jail opponents and undermining the independence of key institutions like the election commission and judiciary.

The government denies these charges.

The BJP government is under accusation for limiting press freedom and trying to suppress critical media.

India's ranking in press freedom has dropped significantly since Modi's election in 2014.

Rahul Gandhi, a former Congress party leader, has labeled the upcoming election as a "rigged match" and described the opposition's struggle against the BJP as a fight for "India's democracy and constitution."