The outcome of India’s parliamentary elections proved bittersweet for the Prime Minister.
Narendra Modi secured a historic third consecutive term as leader of his country – matching the feat of India’s first post-independence leader, Jawaharlal Nehru – but his Bharatiya Janata Party lost its majority in the Lok Sahba, the House of Commons with 545 seats.
While it is almost certain that Modi and the BJP will remain in power, their wings have been clipped. A coalition government must be formed and the need to keep allies happy will moderate Modi’s agenda. There is no doubt about the rebuke to the Prime Minister. This vote was a referendum on him and his achievements: Indian voters found both wanting.
