Despite his party’s failure to win a majority, Modi continues to lead with the help of coalition partners.
On Sunday, Narendra Modi took the oath of office for a rare third consecutive term as India’s prime minister. The 73-year-old leader, known for his polarizing yet popular leadership, was sworn in by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Modi’s swearing-in comes after his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) failed to secure an outright majority in the most recent general election.
While Modi’s party, which dominated the 2014 and 2019 elections, did not win enough seats to form a government independently, his National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition achieved enough support to secure a majority. This marks the first time since Modi’s rise to power that the BJP has required support from regional allies to form the government, ending a decade of commanding control in Parliament.
Modi’s third term represents a significant political achievement, as he becomes only the second Indian prime minister after Jawaharlal Nehru to retain power for a third consecutive term. Despite the setback in his party’s performance in the 2024 national election, Modi remains a dominant figure in Indian politics.
The election results were surprising, with the BJP’s reduced vote share forcing Modi to navigate complex coalition negotiations. His ability to maintain influence with regional parties has allowed him to continue his leadership of the country. The outcome also reflects the growing fragmentation of India’s political landscape, where regional parties hold increasing sway.
The prime minister’s leadership has been marked by a focus on Hindu nationalism, economic reforms, and assertive foreign policy, which has earned him both admiration and criticism. While his supporters view him as a decisive and transformative leader, his critics argue that his tenure has been divisive and has marginalized minority communities.
As Modi embarks on his third term, his administration is expected to focus on economic growth, national security, and navigating complex international relations. India’s political future under his leadership remains uncertain, especially as he faces challenges in balancing regional demands with his party’s national ambitions.
Modi’s victory was also a testament to his enduring popularity among a significant portion of India’s population, even as the country grapples with internal political and social challenges. His third term is set to be a critical period for India, as he works to consolidate his power and fulfill the promises made during his campaign.
