New Delhi, India embarks on its highly anticipated general elections starting Friday, amidst heightened political tensions and significant implications for the nation’s democratic future. Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks an unprecedented third consecutive term, a political milestone not achieved since Jawaharlal Nehru.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Modi is confident of securing over 400 seats in the Lok Sabha, aiming for a majority that could enable significant constitutional changes to further his vision of a Hindu Rashtra. This claim has stirred both support and concern across the nation, particularly regarding the potential implications for India’s secular constitution.

The elections are set against a backdrop of widespread dissatisfaction with the ruling National Democratic Alliance’s policies, which critics label as divisive and detrimental to communal harmony. The opposition, led by the newly formed India National Development Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), challenges Modi’s leadership, accusing it of exacerbating communal tensions and suppressing dissent.

The first phase of the election will cover 102 seats across 21 states, with the entire process spanning six additional phases until June 1, making it one of the longest electoral exercises in the country’s history. Security concerns have led to the deployment of an unprecedented 340,000 paramilitary forces, reflecting the tense atmosphere surrounding these elections.

The BJP’s strategy relies heavily on leveraging nationalistic sentiments, with the Ram Mandir construction and the controversial revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir playing central roles in its campaign. Meanwhile, the opposition banks on a united front in key northern states, which are traditional BJP strongholds, to counter Modi’s influence.

As the country votes, the outcome of these elections could redefine India’s political landscape, either reinforcing Modi’s control or pivoting towards a more inclusive and pluralistic governance model.