India's ruling Congress alliance wins election

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's ruling coalition won an overwhelming election victory on Saturday, boosting hopes of a stable government as the emerging Asian power faces economic downturn and tensions with Pakistan.

Singh's Congress-led coalition, riding on the back of years of economic growth, did better than expected and will probably be only just short of an outright majority, according to data from the election commission and projections by TV channels.

"The people of India have spoken, and spoken with great clarity," Singh told reporters.

The victory over the opposition Hindu-nationalist-led alliance means the left-of-center Congress may find it easier to form a stable coalition with smaller parties and be less vulnerable to pressure on issues like economic reforms.