Modi has also done too little to curb the sectarian tendencies that have obscured his party's economic message. He needs to quell the BJP's divisive instincts and voice concern for the rights of Muslims and other religious minorities. To be sure, Modi himself never resorts to extreme or inflammatory rhetoric, but he's slow to condemn allies who do.

By promoting economic reform and speaking up for a tolerant, modern, multifaith India, Modi could strengthen his own hand against an opportunistic opposition, which seems to be united only on the need to defeat the BJP.

Nobody ever said that governing India would be easy. But Modi is a politician of formidable gifts, capable of appealing to a broad swath of the electorate. The message from Bihar is that he needs to think again, and start using those gifts to greater effect.

David Fuller's view

These are sensible comments.  Modi needs to move swiftly and reassure moderate voters who elected him that he represents all Indians.  However, these comments would lack conviction if he did not simultaneously restrain extreme pro-Hindu rhetoric. 

Governing India is not easy but Modi needs all the support he can get to keep his economic reforms on track.

(See also: The Leadership India Needs From Modi)