As India prepares for its 2024 general elections, here’s a look at the major political players including Modi’s BJP, Congress under Rahul Gandhi, and other influential parties
India is set to undertake the world’s largest democratic exercise starting April 19, 2024, as 969 million registered voters decide the composition of the 543-member Lok Sabha. The elections, scheduled over seven phases, will determine the future leadership of the world’s most populous democracy, where more than 2,500 political parties vie for influence, but only a few hold significant sway.
At the forefront is the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by the incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Established in 1980, the BJP has its roots in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a far-right Hindu nationalist group. Modi, a lifelong RSS member, has transformed the BJP into a dominant force in Indian politics, leading the party to a historic standalone majority in 2014 and seeking a third term in the upcoming elections.
The Indian National Congress, India’s oldest political party founded in 1885, has been the BJP’s main challenger. Despite facing electoral setbacks since 2014, Congress remains a pivotal player under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, a scion of the Nehru-Gandhi family that has given India several prime ministers. Gandhi, representing the Congress-led coalition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), is focusing his campaign on issues like rural distress and economic inequality.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), born out of an anti-corruption movement in 2011, has emerged as a significant force in Indian politics. Led by Arvind Kejriwal, the AAP has gained recognition for its governance in Delhi and Punjab, although recent controversies and arrests of key leaders have cast shadows over its electoral prospects.
Regional parties also play a critical role in shaping India’s parliamentary landscape. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), ruling Tamil Nadu, is known for its strong welfare policies and governance, making it a crucial ally for Congress in the south. Meanwhile, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, controls West Bengal and is an important yet cautious participant in the Indian coalition.
These parties, along with others like the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), the Samajwadi Party (SP), and various regional entities, are instrumental in shaping the multi-dimensional tapestry of Indian politics. The election will not only be a test for Modi’s continued appeal but also a referendum on the opposition’s ability to forge a united front against him.
As the election approaches, all eyes will be on how these political dynamics unfold, influencing the direction of India’s policies and its position on the global stage
