BJP's West Bengal Victory Signals Continued Expansion

For years, Western liberals and opposition political forces within India were optimistic based on one principle. In their view, Narendra Modi is authoritarian and India's extraordinary diversity would ultimately not be able to sustain such a strong ruler or authoritarian. Therefore, Modi's illiberal rule would naturally face difficulties.

However, last Monday, that principle likely suffered its biggest blow. The Bharatiya Janata Party, emerging as the largest political party in India's history, has achieved a remarkable victory.