Thread by @iainmarlow

A thread on India's election, as we all continue to digest Modi's resounding victory. The sheer scale of the mandate, and its confident reception by the BJP, speak to where India is headed: Further to the Right.

bloomberg.com/news/articles/…

India's verdict has obviously validated Modi's winning formula, which I believe is a potent mix of incremental and sometimes questionable economic reform, sprawling welfare programs for the poor, and populist appeals based on nationalism and religion.

bloomberg.com/news/articles/…

This election also proves the BJP's relentless promotion of Modi over the last five years has paid off. This was a presidential election focused squarely on Modi's leadership. The opposition had nothing to match that. Indians simply respect Modi.

bloomberg.com/news/articles/…

This is also the reaffirmation of a new type of Indian politics. The election moved religion-tinged, hyper-nationalism firmly into India's mainstream political culture. Will candidates like Pragya Thakur become the rule, rather than the exception?

bloomberg.com/news/articles/…

To some extent, it also shows political branding and personality matter more than issues. Questionable military, economic and social policies weren't an issue. Air pollution wasn't even discussed. This was an issue-less election, centered around Modi.

bloomberg.com/news/features/…

It's still not clear how the BJP will view its victory. Will it be humbled, conciliatory and innovative? Or will it view the mandate as validation of how it's operated and governed over the last five years. Comments from BJP leaders suggest a bit of both.

bloomberg.com/news/articles/…

It's worth bearing in mind that clearly, with the exception of a few feisty regional leaders, like in West Bengal, Modi and the BJP essentially ran unopposed. There was no compelling alternative to Modi; no opposition unity, no gut appeal, no agenda.

bloomberg.com/news/features/…

There's a big question about how far they'll take Hindu nationalist talking points, like the temple. Clearly, it's part of a successful campaigning mix. But these have been in manifestos for years, and even some supporters doubt the party's sincerity.

bloomberg.com/news/features/…

One notable thing about India's election was the total divorcing of the government's policies and achievements from its potent rhetoric. It could be tough on national security, while suffering terrorist attacks and failing to modernize the military.

bloomberg.com/news/articles/…

...and Modi, though he was unable to create the millions of jobs he promised, was able to escape and float above any sort of association with people's hardship. Modi didn't cure their poverty, perhaps, but he didn't create it -- or get blamed for it.

bloomberg.com/quicktake/indi…

Despite some serious missteps, such as demonetization, and policies that led to head-scratching and skepticism abroad, such as airstrikes on Pakistan or the ASAT test, many Indians ate it up. India was bolder, stronger. And who are you to question it?

bloomberg.com/news/articles/…

In the end, we can only guess at which way Modi will take India, a country that surprises me every day. All I know for sure is that covering this election for @bpolitics alongside brilliant colleagues was a huge privilege. And also, that I'm very tired.

bloomberg.com/news/articles/…