Indian states vote in key test for opposition and PM Modi ahead of 2024 national election
By SHEIKH SAALIQ
Associated Press
NEW DELHI (AP) — Two Indian states are casting ballots in local elections in a test of strength for India’s opposition, which is pitted against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party ahead of a crucial national vote scheduled for next year. The elections in central Chhattisgarh and northeastern Mizoram state on Tuesday, along with polls in three others states over the next three weeks, are also expected to give an indication of voter mood ahead for nationwide polls in 2024. Modi remains popular nationally, but his party is expected to face tough challenges in all five states, where issues like rising unemployment are prevalent. Votes in all five states will be counted on Dec. 3 and results will be declared the same day.