Hindu nationalist Narendra Modi took office as chief minister in the western Indian state of Gujarat not long after 9/11. Within months, a horrifying massacre occurred under his watch. A Muslim mob attacked a train carrying Hindu pilgrims. A fire broke out, killing at least 58 passengers. Riots followed that left more than 1,000 dead, mainly Muslims. Modi’s critics accused him of failing to halt the religious violence, and indirectly encouraging the Hindu majority to retaliate against the Muslim minority in his state.

Today, Modi is poised to become prime minister of the world’s largest democracy, on a pro-business platform promoting economic development. Exit polls show Modi with a substantial lead in national elections held in phases over the past six weeks. A final tally is due Friday.

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