Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governing party has taken a decisive lead as votes are counted in the country’s huge general election.
The alliance led by his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is ahead in well over 300 seats and Mr. Modi is on course to extend his majority.
Over 600 million people voted in a marathon six-week long process.
Mr. Modi was up against the main opposition Congress party and powerful regional rivals across the country.
Counting began at 08:00 local time (02:30 GMT) when voting ended on Sunday.
This election has been viewed as a referendum on Mr. Modi, a polarising figure adored by many but also blamed for increasing divisions in India.
Supporters of the Hindu nationalist BJP have begun celebrating what they see as a decisive win.
But Mr Modi is only expected to arrive at the party HQ in Delhi later on Thursday.
