Podcasts Government The Real Story Whats at stake in Indias election?

Whats at stake in Indias election?

Published: March 29, 2019, 9 a.m.

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Battle lines have been drawn, alliances are being firmed up, and the electoral machine has kicked into action. With over 900 million eligible voters, the 2019 parliamentary elections in India will be the biggest exercise of democracy in the world. Voting will begin on 11 April and will be held in seven stages across India\\u2019s 29 states.

Five years ago, the Hindu nationalist BJP won its first ever landslide victory, but can Narendra Modi\\u2019s party win again this time? The BJP says it is the party of economic success and national security, but it has also been widely accused of unleashing ethnic tensions and restricting human rights. The main opposition Congress party has accused the BJP of destroying India\\u2019s secular ideals, and say this vote is a battle for India\\u2019s soul. So what is at stake in India\\u2019s election? Ritula Shah is joined by a panel to discuss the challenges and choices facing India in this election year.

Photo: Boy holding an Indian flag. Crediti: Saikat Paul/Pacific Press/LightRocket/Getty Images)

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