Part 11/15:
The Verdict on Democracy and Electoral Apathy
Despite the BJP’s setbacks, India’s democracy remained resilient. The relatively low voter turnout—about 1.6% less than in 2019—and the notable presence of "None of the Above" (NOTA) votes, with over 6 million opting to reject all candidates, underscored a growing voter dissatisfaction. In Kolkata, a vibrant cultural hub, voters like artist Banerji expressed disillusionment, choosing NOTA as a protest.
The election, thus, was less a resounding victory for the BJP and more a testament to India’s robust democratic instincts. The electorate opted for stability, not outright majoritarian dominance, signaling a desire for cautious governance amid complex socio-economic challenges.