India rejects Modi, Congress surges in 2024 Elections: Rahul

New Dehli: As the vote count progresses for the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, Rahul Gandhi, a prominent Congress leader, has expressed a sentiment shared by many Indians: a clear rejection of Narendra Modi and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Despite the BJP's disappointment at falling short of the majority mark of 272, the ruling alliance is poised to form the government, according to Times of India.

In contrast, the Congress, after facing consecutive defeats in the past two elections, appears set to exceed the 100-seat mark, signaling a potential resurgence for the party.

Reflecting on Modi's inability to secure a sweeping victory, Gandhi, who secured victories in Uttar Pradesh and Kerala, remarked that voters had collectively rebuked the right-wing nationalist leader.

Both Gandhi and Modi have been re-elected as Members of Parliament, confirmed by India’s election commission.

Addressing a press briefing, Gandhi emphasized that the election was not merely a political battle but a fight to defend the country's institutions, including the Constitution, judiciary, and Enforcement Directorate, which he claimed had been compromised under Modi's leadership.

Brandishing a copy of the Constitution, Gandhi asserted that the election was about safeguarding it, expressing gratitude to Indian citizens for their efforts.

He criticized the ruling party for its tactics, accusing it of targeting opposition parties and undermining democratic norms.

The election results, Gandhi stated, send a clear message to Modi: "we do not want you."

Regarding potential alliances, Gandhi indicated that decisions would be made after consultations with allies, including considerations about forming the government or assuming opposition roles.

Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP) have joined forces under the bloc "INDIA," making significant gains in Uttar Pradesh, surpassing the BJP-led NDA.

Exit polls had initially favored the BJP-led NDA government for a remarkable third term after the seven phases of polling ended on June 1.