Modi’s Popularity Endures Despite Recent India State Poll Defeat

  • Rahul Gandhi’s popularity has risen, a recent survey shows
  • Modi remains the top pick for the prime minister’s job

Narendra Modi during a visit to Sydney, Australia, on May 24.

Photographer: Brent Lewin/Bloomberg

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity remains strong despite his party’s loss in a crucial state election, but his main rival Rahul Gandhi is also gaining ground, indicating the opposition could gather momentum ahead of the 2024 national election.

Modi remains the top choice for prime minister and his Bharatiya Janata Party’s vote share remains steady, according to a survey by broadcaster New Delhi Television Ltd. in partnership with the Lokniti-Centre for the Study of Developing Societies research group.