Modi Seeks Unprecedented Third Term As India's Polarizing yet Popular Prime Minister

Narendra Modi is India's popular but divisive Prime Minister seeking an unprecedented third term. His supporters see him as a transformative leader, while critics accuse him of stoking religious divisions.

Modi projects a narrative of humble beginnings as a tea seller's son, contrasting with India's anglicized political elite. His persona and economic reforms resonate with many Indians.

Modi's tenure has seen infrastructure upgrades but also increased social polarization and allegations of complicity in 2002 anti-Muslim riots as chief minister.

Modi has shifted India towards assertive Hindu nationalism via policies like revoking Kashmir's autonomy and building a temple on disputed Ayodhya site.

Modi dominates Indian politics but faces criticisms of inequality, unemployment, and democratic decline amid his Hindu nationalist platform's popularity.