Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at an election rally in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, expressed strong confidence that his party, the BJP, will secure a third consecutive term in power. Modi declared, “The Modi government will score a hat-trick,” emphasizing his belief in continued success.
During his speech, Modi pledged to prioritize the welfare of the poor, youth, women, and farmers if re-elected. He stated, “In the new government, I have to take many big decisions for the poor, youth, women, and farmers,” highlighting his commitment to these groups.
Addressing the ongoing Gaza conflict, Modi mentioned that he had sent an envoy to Israel, demonstrating his active involvement in international affairs. This was part of his broader campaign efforts in Barabanki, as the BJP prepares for the fifth round of the seven-phase elections on May 20.
Modi criticized the opposition alliance, known as the INDIA bloc, warning that their potential rise to power could lead to national instability. He contrasted this with the BJP-NDA alliance, which he claimed is dedicated to national interests.
As the election campaign progresses past its halfway point, the competition among candidates is intensifying, with nearly a billion eligible voters being courted by thousands of candidates from national and regional parties, as well as independents.
Prime Minister Modi, aiming to extend his decade-long tenure by another five years, has faced criticism from the opposition for his forceful and often divisive rhetoric. His main challenger, Rahul Gandhi of the Indian National Congress, is leading an alliance of over 20 parties in an effort to halt Modi’s momentum.
The elections, which have so far been conducted in four phases, will continue with the fifth phase of voting on May 20. This phase will determine the electoral fate of 695 candidates across 49 constituencies in six states and two Union territories, including Maharashtra, Bihar, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Ladakh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
