State polls pose biggest challenge for BJP

Hard fight ahead for Modi's party to defend position against rival Congress in 3 states

BJP has won almost every state election over the last five years, thanks to PM Narendra Modi's popularity and a strong election campaign team. PHOTO: REUTERS
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will face its biggest challenge in the upcoming state elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, where it is hoping to stave off a challenge from rival Congress.

The Election Commission has announced elections from Nov 12 to Dec 7 in these states, as well as two smaller states - Telangana and Mizoram. Election results will be out on Dec 11.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 13, 2018, with the headline State polls pose biggest challenge for BJP. Subscribe