The recent election verdict in India has sent important messages and lessons to political parties. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a remarkable mandate, and there are four key takeaways from this victory. First, the importance of good governance and women’s empowerment has been proven. Second, the era of relying on vote banks is over. Third, corruption carries consequences. Finally, a strong organizational structure can lead to breaking new ground.
The BJP’s success has surprised many, including some of its own members. While the outcome in Rajasthan was expected, Chhattisgarh demonstrated that allegations of corruption only stick when made by a clean and credible leader. However, the BJP’s unprecedented success in Madhya Pradesh is truly remarkable.
In Madhya Pradesh, conventional assumptions were challenged. People talked about voter fatigue, anti-incumbency, generational change, and limitations in the development narrative. As a result, many political experts doubted the BJP’s chances in the state. However, a deeper analysis of the results reveals a powerful message – people support those who deliver good governance and women’s empowerment.
The BJP’s strong foundation in Madhya Pradesh, built by leaders like Kushabhau Thackrey, played a significant role in converting goodwill into voter mobilization. Moreover, the state has a cadre with unwavering commitment to ideology and organization, which made a huge difference. The experience of empowerment, resulting from various development projects, has resonated with the voters. For example, the Mohapura dam in Rajgadh district has provided irrigation through a sprinkler system-based piping network, leading to increased agricultural productivity and reduced seasonal migration of farm laborers. The state’s infrastructure, including roads and the cleanest city tag for Indore, has also contributed to the BJP’s success.
The government’s aspirational district/block development program has transformed the lives of people in once backward districts. The BJP’s performance in these areas and in tribal seats further reinforces the message of empowerment. The Ladli Behna scheme, which provides an assured amount in the bank accounts of women, has boosted their self-esteem and reduced dependency on their husbands. This sense of self-reliance has had a significant impact on Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s support base.
In Rajasthan, the BJP’s success was less surprising, as the inert and helpless Congress leadership demoralized Ashok Gehlot and his faction. The BJP’s victory in Chhattisgarh was remarkable, with Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel paying a heavy price for cursing Mahadeva. PM Modi’s attacks on rival leaders based on corruption have proven effective, especially in tribal areas where the BJP’s commitment to protecting identity and culture resonates with the voters.
The BJP’s increasing voter base in Telangana should be a warning for regional parties who rely solely on regionalism. The party’s progress in Mizoram, despite winning only two seats, highlights the dedication of its cadres in specific areas. The BJP’s success can also be attributed to the towering leadership of PM Modi, who works tirelessly for about 18 hours every day. His political will, campaign strategies, carefully curated speeches, and consistent focus on the ground realities have provided him with a strong platform. Attacks from other political leaders and attacks from PM Modi are qualitatively different.
In conclusion, the BJP’s mandate is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its leaders and cadres. It sends a clear message about the importance of good governance, women’s empowerment, and the rejection of vote bank politics. The party’s success in various states showcases the effectiveness of its organizational strength and the leadership of PM Modi.
