As the numbers stabilise & a clear picture emerges about the results of the 2023 state elections, Sagarika Mitra, Content Head of JAN KI BAAT, presents a 12 point analysis on the verdict
1. I.N.D.I Alliance Flop Show: Hindi Heartland Rejects I.N.D.I Alliance Ahead of 2024
The much-touted I.N.D.I alliance faced a resounding rejection in the Hindi Heartland, setting the tone for the upcoming national elections. The electorate’s clear preference for decisive leadership over coalition politics is a significant takeaway, highlighting the importance of cohesive governance in the region.
‘Panauti’ Comment Backfires: Rahul Gandhi’s ‘abuse-niti’ results in Congress’ loss
Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Panauti’ jibe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi after India’s loss in the World Cup finals, proved to be a political miscalculation. The electorate’s disapproval of such rhetoric became evident as the BJP clinched a clear majority in the state.
3. Decisive Mandate Across States: Dispelling the Notions of ‘Kante ki Takkar’
BJP’s resounding victories in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh have dispelled the notion of a closely contested battle (‘Kante ki Takkar’). The decisive mandate reflects the electorate’s preference for a clear and stable government.
4. Mahila Voter with Modi: Women Voters Signal Pan-India Phenomenon
A striking trend observed by JAN KI BAAT is the decisive tilt of women voters towards the BJP. This signals a pan-India phenomenon, indicating the party’s strategic outreach that transcends regional boundaries and resonates with women across diverse demographics.
5. Thumbs Up for Good Governance & Welfare Over ‘Only Freebies’
The election results underscore a significant shift in voter preferences, favoring politics centered on good governance and welfare over mere promises of freebies. This marks a departure from conventional strategies and emphasizes the importance of substantive governance.
6. Pro-Incumbency Reality: BJP’s Versatility in Winning Both Scenarios
BJP’s ability to secure victories under both pro-incumbency (Madhya Pradesh) and anti-incumbency (Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan) scenarios showcases its adaptability and effectiveness as a governance-oriented political force.
7. End of Divisive Caste Politics?: BJP’s Success in Securing Diverse Votes
The defeat of Congress’s divisive caste-based politics is evident in the BJP’s success in securing OBC votes in Madhya Pradesh, ST votes in Chhattisgarh, and SC votes across various states. This signals a rejection of identity-based politics in favor of broader governance issues.
8. Sanatan Matters: Rejection of Parties who Insults to Sanatan Dharma in Hindi Heartland
The resounding dismissal of parties attempting to insult and deride Sanatan Dharma in the Hindi Heartland reflects the electorate’s commitment to cultural values and traditions. This sentiment signifies the importance of respecting cultural ethos in electoral politics.
9. BJP Rises in Telangana: Dismissing Notions of a North-South Divide
Contrary to Congress’ narrative, BJP’s improved performance in Telangana dispels notions of a North-South divide. With the BRS facing defeat, Telangana could soon become a competitive BJP-Congress battleground.
10. Modi Magic: PM Modi’s Pivotal Role in BJP’s Electoral Triumphs
Prime Minister Modi’s leadership emerges as the decisive factor in converting local anti-incumbency into sweeping pro-incumbency. His ability to orchestrate remarkable turnarounds in seemingly challenging states like Chhattisgarh solidifies the concept of ‘Modi Magic’ in Indian politics.
11. What Next in 2024?: BJP’s ‘400 paar’ Agenda
Looking ahead to the national stage, JAN KI BAAT’s analysis suggests that the BJP is poised to set ambitious goals for Lok Sabha 2024. With the ambition to secure 400+ seats, the party aims to continue its electoral dominance.
12. Not Projecting CM Face Worked for BJP: Capitalising on ‘Modi Factor‘
JAN KI BAAT underscores the success of BJP’s strategic decision to refrain from projecting a Chief Ministerial face in state elections. By focusing attention on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and welfare schemes, the party effectively capitalised on his popularity, positioning him as the overarching symbol of governance and development without being confined by regional personalities.