Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Voting Begins in Key Indian States Amid Political Tensions

4/9/2026

46 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Voting has begun in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, with results due May 4.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is expected to win in Assam.
In West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, the BJP seeks to expand influence amid cooking gas shortages tied to the Middle East crisis.
The elections will test Modi's popularity and the opposition's ability to challenge the BJP's dominance.

History

Historical Context

The 2014 Indian general elections, held from April 7 to May 12, marked a pivotal shift in power as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 282 seats, led by Narendra Modi. This election, the largest in history with 834 million voters, reflected public discontent with the Indian National Congress, which suffered its worst defeat, securing only 44 seats. The outcomes continue to shape India's political landscape today.

1 of 2

Story summary

Voting has begun in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, with results due May 4.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is expected to win in Assam.
In West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, the BJP seeks to expand influence amid cooking gas shortages tied to the Middle East crisis.
The elections will test Modi's popularity and the opposition's ability to challenge the BJP's dominance.

1 / 2