India’s Congress party defeats Narendra Modi’s BJP in Karnataka state elections

Victory deals blow to prime minister, who will seek third term in power at next year's general election

India's opposition Congress party has swept the Karnataka state elections, dealing a blow to Narendra Modi's ruling party, which had fought hard to retain power.

As votes were counted on Saturday, it became clear Congress had won an overwhelming majority in the state and the ruling Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) quickly conceded defeat. People have rejected divisive politics," said Pawan Khera, a Congress party spokesperson.