The 2024 Indian general election is a significant event, not just for India, but for the world, given India’s position as the largest democracy. Spanning from 19 April to 1 June 2024, this election is set to be the largest democratic exercise in history, surpassing the 2019 Indian general election in terms of eligible voters. The results, to be declared on 4 June 2024, will shape India’s political and socio-economic landscape for the next five years.
Narendra Modi’s BJP Party
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under the leadership of Narendra Modi, is seeking a third consecutive term. The BJP’s campaign is centered around its performance over the last ten years, highlighting key policy initiatives and development projects. Recent opinion polls suggest a favorable outcome for the BJP, indicating that the party and its allies may secure a majority.
The Opposition
The opposition is primarily constituted by the Indian National Congress and several regional parties forming the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). They are presenting a united front against the BJP, focusing their campaign on issues such as unemployment, inflation, and social justice. Their strategy involves leveraging the strengths of regional parties to secure votes in key states.
India’s Dark Politics: A Closer Look at the BJP’s Actions
BJP and the Muslim Community
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Accused of fostering a climate of fear and discrimination against the Muslim minority. Critics argue that the BJP’s vision of India as a Hindu nation. India Led to an increase in violence against Muslims.
There have been allegations of the BJP weaponizing history against Muslims. Particularly focusing on the Mughal era, to demonize the community. This has led to a rise in communal tensions and incidents of violence.
However, it’s important to note that the BJP has also made efforts to court Muslim voters in certain states and elections. This is seen as a strategy to counter the consolidation of the minority community as an anti-BJP force.
The Babri Masjid Demolition
The demolition of the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992. Viewed by many Muslims as a symbol of their unequal status in India. The mosque, a 16th-century structure in Ayodhya, was torn down by a mob that included members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other Hindu nationalist groups.
The destruction of the mosque was seen as a deliberate act to convey to Muslims their unequal status as citizens of India. It led to religious riots across the country, resulting in the death of approximately 2,000 people, mostly Muslims.
The BJP leaders, including former Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani and other senior figures, were acquitted of any wrongdoing in the demolition by a special court. The court ruled that the demolition was the spontaneous action of a crowd. This verdict has been criticized by Muslim groups and opposition parties.
Asaduddin Owais, one of India’s leading Muslim politicians, expressed his pain at the verdict and called it “a black day for [the] judiciary”. He stated that the desecration and demolition of Babri Masjid is a symbol of injustice and that those responsible for its destruction were never convicted.
The Babri Masjid demolition has had a profound impact on India’s social fabric, deepening communal divisions and tarnishing India’s secular culture. It serves as a sobering reminder of the negative effects of religious intolerance and discord within communities.
BJP and the Opposition
The BJP has been accused of using strong-arm tactics to subdue political opponents and critics. This includes bringing corruption charges against officials from its main rival, the Congress Party, and freezing the Congress party’s bank accounts for alleged non-payment of taxes.
The BJP’s actions against opposition parties have been criticized as an attack on democracy. For instance, Arvind Kejriwal, one of India’s most prominent opposition leaders and the chief minister of Delhi, was detained in a cell in Delhi’s Tihar jail. His party, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), called the arrests a political conspiracy by the BJP.
Despite these challenges, opposition parties continue to strive for unity and are working to project themselves as an alternative to the BJP.
Public Opinion on Narendra Modi’s Government
Public opinion on Narendra Modi’s government is varied. Some laud the government for improving India’s global standing and pushing for infrastructural development. However, there are also concerns about social harmony, with critics arguing that minority groups often face discrimination. Despite these concerns, Modi’s popularity remains high, indicating a strong base of support.
Current Scenario
As the election draws near, the political landscape is buzzing with activity. The BJP has initiated a nationwide pre-election push, focusing on door-to-door campaigning and public rallies. The opposition, on the other hand, is working to project unity and reach out to various sections of society. The outcome of this election will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the future of India.
