India’s Shifting Political Narrative: From Hindutva to Freebies
Over the past decade, India has experienced a significant shift in its political landscape. Unlike many countries that adopted a specific ideological narrative after gaining independence from colonial powers, India has always been characterized by its diversity and pluralism. However, since 2014, a new ideological state has emerged, with Hindutva becoming the dominant creed. Initially, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) focused on the “Gujarat model” of economic development, but after coming to power, Hindutva proved to be a powerful tool for winning elections alongside the cult of personality surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Yet, it seems that this narrative is now losing its charm, as the politics of freebies is becoming the new normal.
The concept of offering freebies to voters is not new in Indian politics. Tamil Nadu has been experimenting with this strategy for over two decades. However, it is only recently that North India has recognized the potential of such promises in winning elections. Arvind Kejriwal and his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) were pioneers in this regard. Their success in the 2013 Delhi elections was attributed to their promise of providing up to 200 units of free electricity and half-priced water. After coming to power, Kejriwal fulfilled these promises, which led to subsequent victories in Delhi and Punjab.
While the BJP, under Modi’s leadership, also implemented welfare schemes like the Ujjwala scheme, which provided free gas stoves to those below the poverty line, these initiatives were categorized as welfare measures rather than freebies. Nonetheless, the BJP successfully combined Hindutva with welfare, creating a new social base for the party known as the “Labharthi” or beneficiary class. Opposition parties struggled to counter this strategy, as being perceived as anti-Hindu in a predominantly Hindu country is politically risky.
However, a new political narrative is emerging. The Congress party tasted success in Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka by promising free electricity, financial aid to women, and the restoration of the old pension scheme. These guarantees, along with similar promises in other states, helped the Congress defeat the BJP. This victory in Karnataka set a new template for the Congress, leaving the BJP rattled. PM Modi himself deemed the culture of freebies “dangerous for development.”
Nonetheless, the BJP, led by Modi, is now embracing this culture of freebies. In the current elections in five states, the BJP is offering subsidized gas cylinders, free power, and other incentives to counter the Congress’s promises. This shift indicates a potential challenge to the BJP’s dominance as a new political narrative takes shape.
It is important to note that the rise of Hindutva politics has played a crucial role in the BJP’s success. It has helped the party consolidate its support base and attract new voters. However, the “aspirational” Hindu voter, who contributed to the BJP’s rise, may now be swayed by the allure of freebies if they feel that the party has not delivered on its economic promises.
While it is too early to draw definitive conclusions, it is clear that a shift is occurring. Hindutva politics is likely here to stay, but the BJP must adapt its socio-political and politico-economic strategy to address the changing aspirations of the Indian voter. The era of artificial intelligence may be upon us, but the Indian voter’s mind is not artificial. They have their own creative thinking, and political parties need to acknowledge and understand this if they want to stay relevant.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.
