Indian Election Sees Unexpected Challenge to Modi

Early results from the Indian parliamentary elections indicate a closer contest than predicted, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's alliance and the opposition each passing the 200-seat mark. Over 642 million took part in the world's largest democratic exercise. The final outcome remains uncertain as counting continues.

In the latest parliamentary elections in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's alliance, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), appeared poised for a majority in the 543-member Lok Sabha.

With around half the votes counted, early results showed the coalition securing over 200 seats.

However, the opposition coalition, INDIA bloc, led by the Indian National Congress, also crossed the 200-seat mark, surpassing exit poll predictions.

A coalition needs at least 272 seats to form a government.

Over 642 million citizens participated in this election, making it the largest democratic exercise globally.

Counting, supervised by the Election Commission of India, started with postal ballots followed by Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

The stock market and the rupee experienced volatility, reflecting the uncertain outcome.

Exit polls had initially predicted a landslide win for Modi's alliance, but Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had urged the public to await the official count, claiming the opposition could win 295 seats.