Modi’s shrinking statureThe factor that has insulated Gandhi from being bruised by electoral losses is best expressed mathematically: his stature is inversely proportionate to Modi’s. Modi’s stature was first dented in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, when the BJP’s loss of seats punctured the myth of his invincibility. This was because of Gandhi’s campaign alleging that the Election Commission of India was helping Modi’s BJP steal victories. Modi’s stature was dented most severely by Operation Sindoor in 2025, launched against Pakistan for sponsoring the Pahalgam massacre. Beyond the student protests, Gandhi’s talk of love is increasingly framed in opposition to Modi’s politics of polarisation.