Challenges Facing India's Opposition: The Indian National Congress

India's opposition faces huge challenges as their loose coalition of more than two dozen parties take on the juggernaut of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The Congress, once a dominant force in Indian politics, has been losing key members to the BJP in recent years. As elections near, the party is struggling to maintain its influence and relevance in the face of Modi's popularity.

The names Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Indira Gandhi are synonymous with Indian independence and the country's early development. The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, played a crucial role in the fight against British colonial rule and in shaping the new nation. However, in recent years, the party has faced internal divisions and leadership challenges that have weakened its position in Indian politics.

Nearly a billion Indians will be eligible to start voting in the world's biggest election, in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking re-election. The Congress is striving to present a united front against the BJP, but internal dissent and factionalism have made it difficult for the party to mount a strong challenge.

As the campaign heats up, The Economist joins the most prominent opposition politician on the campaign trail in an effort to understand the dynamics of Indian politics. The Congress, led by Rahul Gandhi, is trying to rally support and present a compelling alternative to Modi's vision for India's future.

India, with nearly a billion eligible voters, will embark on the world's largest electoral exercise. The country's diverse population and complex political landscape make it a challenging battleground for parties like the Congress. The party is facing tough competition not only from the BJP but also from regional parties that are vying for power at the national level.

More about Modi's BJP, Rahul Gandhi's Congress, and other parties that are central to the world's largest electoral exercise. The Congress is struggling to retain its traditional support base and appeal to a new generation of voters who are looking for fresh ideas and leadership. The party's ability to adapt to changing political dynamics and connect with voters will determine its future success in Indian politics.