The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): Recent trends showing a lower voter turnout in the ongoing Indian general election have raised alarms within Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s team. Just weeks ago, polls had suggested a massive win for Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its coalition partners, but those expectations are now under scrutiny.
Observers attribute the slow start to a sense of complacency among BJP activists, convinced of an inevitable victory, prompting Modi to intensify efforts to mobilize the Hindu base, which has traditionally supported the party. According to political experts, Modi has shifted the tone of his speeches, aiming to energize Hindu voters to participate more actively in the polling process.
Before the elections, forecasts had the BJP and its allies capturing a vast majority of the 543 available parliamentary seats, driven by Modi’s appeal, economic initiatives, and notable projects like the inauguration of a Hindu temple at a historically contentious site.
The BJP and its affiliates, which secured 353 seats in the 2019 elections under the banner “Ab ki baar, 400 paar” (This time, above 400), face tempered expectations this year after a muted start in the first two of seven voting phases. The goal of securing a two-thirds majority, which would enable significant constitutional amendments, seems increasingly challenging.
Local BJP representatives and political analysts express concerns over the impact of voter and volunteer disinterest, exacerbated by challenges in certain regions where the BJP previously dominated. Modi has now pivoted his campaign focus from highlighting past administrative achievements to appealing to nationalistic sentiments and critiquing minority communities and opposition groups.
With approximately 66% voter participation in the early phases—only slightly below previous levels—there was a notable decrease in BJP-stronghold states. This has somewhat dashed the party’s hopes of a high turnout bolstering their results.
Polls are set to close on June 1, with the outcome revealed on June 4. Despite current participation rates falling short of expectations, BJP officials remain optimistic about maintaining control, although achieving a commanding majority is uncertain.
Critics argue that the BJP’s strategy of targeting specific communities may alienate some voters. Individuals from minority groups and disillusioned citizens have expressed reluctance to vote, feeling marginalized by the current political narrative.
As the campaign progresses, the opposition parties, previously overshadowed by Modi’s successes, see a chance to improve their standing, citing the lack of a prevailing Modi-led wave this election cycle. Political experts suggest the BJP might still adjust its campaign approach as the election continues, with potential developments that could influence the final stages.
