State elections test Modi’s political strength

Counting of votes in small constituencies of four states, Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, began at 8 a.m. local time (0230 GMT).

The Election Commission of India has deployed additional counting and police observers to West Bengal, where a close contest is expected. Three-tier security arrangements including armored vehicles have been made in the eastern state. Many local businesses and schools remained closed for the day amid speculation that violence could erupt if the incumbent party loses.

Early trends have already started to emerge and I will expand on these in a separate post. A clear view will emerge in the afternoon.

Once multiple rounds of counting are completed, the Election Commission will announce the final winners for each constituency.

Good morning! And welcome to DW’s India news blog.

I’m Mahima Kapoor from the New Delhi bureau, and I’ll be bringing you all the key updates and conversations from across India.

The India Meteorological Department has issued a ‘red’ alert for severe thunderstorm and hailstorm in New Delhi, while parts of the National Capital Region have been placed under ‘orange’ alert. Stormy winds and heavy rains are also occurring in West Bengal.

My poetic alter ego would say that the season merely reflects the expected upheaval in Indian politics.

Counting of votes is going on today in the Union Territory of Puducherry including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Assam. Some of these areas recorded historic turnout following an aggressive campaign season for the high-stakes elections.

According to estimates, there will be mixed results in West Bengal, Kerala, Assam, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu. Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is trying to make inroads in three states where it has never been in power.

Some suggest the BJP will make inroads in states like Assam, while others point to regional parties holding their own in key battlegrounds – setting the stage for results that could reshape India’s political map.