Television anchors of a certain persuasion have resumed their passionate commentary in recent days. They vociferously criticized Lalu Yadav’s apparent audacity in discussing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his family. In their view, Mr. Lalu Yadav had “insulted” Mr. Modi. Paradoxically, they also argued that Lal’s statement would boomerang on the Indian alliance and cause great damage. Some even dared to predict that Mr. Modi would achieve a substantial victory similar to his victories in 2014 and 2019.
In 2014, Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar mocked Prime Minister Modi’s career as a “chaiwala” (tea seller), and in 2019, Rahul Gandhi called him a “chaiwala” (tea seller).Chowkidar Cholhai“(Security guards are thieves) used abusive language against Modi. In both cases, Modi used these attacks to make himself appear to be a victim of opposition violence. It is alleged that Modi’s election victory was facilitated by the “abuse” of the opposition parties, which he cleverly exploited. It was used to his advantage.
Prime Minister Modi’s counterattack
As in the past, Prime Minister Modi has tried to hit back against the Indian alliance. He noticed Ral’s word “.”ParivarWe created a new slogan: “(Family).”My bhi modi ka parivaar(I am also part of Mr. Modi’s family). Cabinet ministers, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief minister, senior party leaders and leaders were quick to add:My bhi modi ka parivaarThis strategy was developed by Rahul in 2019.Chowkidar Cholhai” was translated into “My bhi chowkidar” (I am also a security guard).
The idea that India’s elections could be swayed by a single statement is wishful thinking. Such simplistic arguments reflect a lazy expression that lacks understanding of India’s reality. For political parties and leaders, such statements are used at best as an excuse to launch a counterattack. Elections, on the other hand, are won or lost on real issues. Politicians may try to change the public’s focus, but they are rarely successful. Similarly, the 2014 and 2019 elections were doomed by the unserious statements of Mani Shankar Aiyar and Rahul Gandhi.
Why Congress really lost the 2014 elections
The 2014 elections signaled a paradigm shift in India’s electoral history. Suspicions of corruption had undermined the credibility of the parliament, and a change of government was imminent. Prime Minister Modi has deftly exploited public discontent with the Congress, framing the election as a referendum on politics, dynasty and rights, intertwined with a broader narrative of Hindutva. He projected himself as the savior of the nation who would solve all of India’s problems. Mr. Modi’s political acumen, combined with the Congress’ lackluster election campaign and declining morale among its cadre, ensured his victory. Mr Aiyar’s ‘chaiwala’ jibe further added fuel to the fire and provided more fodder for Mr Modi’s election campaign.
Prime Minister Modi faced difficulties in 2019 until the Pulwama incident changed the political landscape. Rising nationalism after the Pulwama attack and subsequent Balakot air strikes has overshadowed other issues, amid fears that Mr. Modi will not be able to secure a parliamentary majority. Rahul Gandhi’schowkidar chorusAs Prime Minister Modi’s rhetoric about national security and strong leadership spread, the statements became vague. The BJP secured a landslide victory in 303 seats.
2019 brand modi
Under Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, the Congress secured victory in the December 2018 assembly elections in three states: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Prior to these elections, the BJP had faced a setback after failing to secure victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections. , and is struggling in Gujarat despite the presence of Modi and Shah. However, in the wake of the terror attack in Pulwama that claimed the lives of 39 CRPF personnel and the subsequent surgical strike by the Indian Army in Balakot, rising nationalism dominated the discourse.The cries ofpakistan co ghs ke mara(We went to Pakistan to take revenge) became the dominant theme, overshadowing other issues. By the time the vote took place, Rahul Gandhi had said the following about Modi:chowkidar chorusBrand Modi won and the BJP secured 303 seats.
As in the past, voters in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections are likely to exercise their franchise based on their perception of the Modi government’s performance over the past five years. Mr. Modi has cultivated an image of change under his leadership, emphasizing reducing corruption, strengthening security and raising India’s global standing. It highlights the government’s response to the unprecedented medical crisis caused by the coronavirus, including free vaccination of 140 million people and free distribution of rations to 800 billion poor people. However, these claims by the Modi government can be legally challenged.
This time the challenge of the BJP
Opposition parties united under India’s umbrella have accused Modi’s government of undermining democracy, abusing central institutions to target opposition parties and intimidating opposition leaders. Opinion polls consistently highlight concerns about rising prices, unemployment and threats to minority rights. The BJP and its right-wing allies have been accused of openly targeting some social groups, while government institutions have been criticized for what they see as inaction.
In this context, to suggest that the election will be decided solely by Lalu Yadav’s words calls into question the collective wisdom of the voters. This is because even after 77 years of independence, voters have not embraced democratic consciousness and are still guided by herd mentality, with leaders avoiding responsibility for their actions. is implied. However, historical examples suggest otherwise. Indira Gandhi’s defeat and subsequent comeback after the 1977 Emergency and her faith in leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi speak to the innate wisdom of voters.
Pursuing only flavor
Indian society is dynamic. The Modi government has been given two chances to rule, but it will be difficult for the Bharatiya Janata Party to convince voters that it is worthy of a third term. Similarly, the Indian-led rebels will have to make significant efforts before making a claim.
Flirty remarks may add flavor to a political discussion, like chutney to a meal, but they can never replace substantive policy discussion and its impact on people’s minds.
(Ashutosh is the author of ‘Hindu Rashtra’ and editor of satyahindi.com)
Disclaimer: These are the author’s personal opinions.