National Security Online Resource Center

After nearly a month of voting, the results of the election were finally announced, shocking most observers, as the Indian National Congress not only retained the government, but expanded its majority from 140 seats to 200, the largest total of any single party in 18 years.

Most observers counted on the traditional anti-incumbency sentiment of the Indian electorate, coupled with a slowing economy to argue that Congress will likely be pushed out of power. However, Congress Party’s massive jobs program and disillusion with the Communists and BJP (the other national party) allowed for a huge victory and potentially a stable coalition for the next five years.

The most important implication for the U.S. is that Congress will likely sustain its efforts in fighting terrorism and not antagonizing Pakistan. A host of economic reforms blocked by the Communists, whose numbers were reduced from 60 to 24 in the Parliament, will likely see the day of light again. Finally, the U.S. can build upon its relationship with India, now that a stable government will allow Congress much more leeway.