The BJP is all set to form the government in Gujarat for a sixth time. However, the Gujarat assembly election victory is not a joyous one for the BJP. In rural areas, the BJP only managed to win 43 percent of votes. On the other hand, the Congress garnered 49 percent votes in these areas. This should worry the BJP, considering the PM Narendra Modi-led BJP had been extensively promoting their pro-poor image.
In days leading up to the polls, the BJP resorted to religious polarisation in a bid to woo voters. Young leaders like Hardik Patel were instrumental in drumming up an anti-BJP wave. However, the Congress failed to take advantage. The Congress’ healthy poll numbers serve as a warning of sorts for the BJP. It is almost as if the voters have told the BJP, “we trust you, but we are unhappy with you”.
The BJP would do well to read the message right and correct course by focusing on development instead of propaganda. Policies must be aimed at bringing about development, and not garnering votes alone.
On the other hand, the Congress need look no further than the BJP’s concerted and consistent efforts in states like Kerala and West Bengal to learn to put up a fight for the 2019 elections. In regions where the BJP is little more than a mere footprint, repeated rallies by the party’s top brass shows a commitment that the Congress has lacked so far.
Whether you call it the BJP’s killer instinct, or its tenacity to fight tooth and nail, it’s a skill the Congress must acquire quickly. The 2019 elections are not too far away. And even before the final, many an important election awaits next year. From Karnataka (due for polls in early 2018) to Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan later in the year, the fight must begin soon. And the preparation must begin now.
Any other way, and the Congress could be left biting the dust yet again.
Video Producer: Srishti Tyagi
Video Editor: Mohd Ibrahim
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