Early Counting Trends Show Modi's BJP-Led Alliance Leading in Majority of Seats

In the early hours of vote counting, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led alliance is racing toward a clear majority in the 543-member lower house of parliament. This huge election, held in seven phases over six weeks, involved almost a billion registered voters.

The BJP aims for a rare third consecutive term, while more than two dozen opposition parties hope to prove exit polls wrong. The counting of votes started at 8 am (local time) . Postal ballot votes are counted first.

Then the 'Electronic Voting Machine' in short EVM has been started opening one by one. Meanwhile, the BJP-led ruling coalition NDA is ahead in the first hour of the counting of votes.

According to reports from various news channels, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was leading in over 300 seats, with the BJP leading in 255. The opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) led by Rahul Gandhi's Congress party was ahead in 172 seats, with Congress leading in 71.

Republic TV declared Modi the winner based on early trends.

Meanwhile, after the counting of votes started, Narendra Modi is ahead in the initial results in his seat. He is leading in Varanasi Lok Sabha seat.

Besides, Amit Shah, Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav are also leading in their respective constituencies in the preliminary results.

If Modi's victory is confirmed, his BJP will have won amidst a divisive campaign where parties accused each other of religious bias.

Investors are optimistic about another Modi term, anticipating continued economic growth and pro-business reforms. However, critics warn that a possible two-thirds majority in parliament could lead to significant changes to the constitution.

Voting has been held for the 543-seat Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament. The party or coalition that gets 272 or more seats will form the next government of the country.