The BJP manifesto for the 2024 Lok Sabha election – titled ‘Modi ki Guarantee’ – reflects a strategic shift for the party as it seeks a third term in power.
The 2019 manifesto was marked by assertive pledges on the Ram Mandir and Article 370 — commitments now largely realised.
This time, the BJP appears to have tempered its approach, prioritising governance over controversy, and promises over polemics.
This nuanced change signals a party attuned to the electorate’s pulse, seeking to transcend the fervour of contentious issues.
The manifesto’s welfarist tilt is particularly noteworthy. It suggests an evolution in the BJP’s political posture, one that aims to blend its ideological roots with a broader, more inclusive agenda. This could be interpreted as an attempt to court a wider demographic, ensuring that its promises resonate with the aspirations of a diverse India.
The BJP’s manifesto serves not only as a blueprint for its intended policies but also as a reflection of its adaptive political strategy.
It’s a balancing act between staying true to its ideological convictions and embracing a pragmatic approach that could define its governance for the years to come. The manifesto, thus, is more than a mere statement of intent; it is the narrative of a party evolving with the times, striving to harmonise its foundational beliefs with the practical needs of a dynamic nation.
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In the BJP’s 2019 manifesto, the National Register of Citizens (NRC) was presented as a bulwark against illegal immigration, a move aimed at protecting the cultural and linguistic sanctity of various regions, as well as safeguarding the livelihoods of local residents.
Fast forward to 2024, and the NRC finds no mention in the ‘Modi ki Guarantee’ document. This omission is not merely editorial. It is a calculated retreat, reflecting a strategic pivot in the face of widespread dissent, particularly from minority communities.
The BJP’s narrative on citizenship has been a rollercoaster of controversy, with Home Minister Amit Shah’s “chronology” remark exacerbating fears among many. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), whose rules were notified just before the election announcement, became a focal point of contention, its efficacy and logic questioned in the absence of the NRC.
The party’s decision to exclude the NRC from its manifesto suggests a conscious effort to temper its approach, to appear less confrontational, and more considerate of the nation’s diverse fabric.
This is not a move made out of fear but rather a strategic choice to present a more palatable, welfare-oriented face to the electorate. It is a recognition that the path to power is paved with promises that resonate with the people’s aspirations, rather than with policies that stir the pot.
The BJP’s shift is emblematic of a broader political calculus: That the road to electoral success in a democracy as vibrant and varied as India’s requires a blend of ideological steadfastness and adaptive pragmatism.
The party’s manifesto for 2024, therefore, is not just a document of pledges. It is a reflection of a political entity in flux, navigating the complex currents of public opinion and national interest.
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The BJP’s commitment to implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is a bold declaration of intent, signaling a move towards unifying personal laws and asserting a common legal framework.
This aligns with the party’s ideological lineage and the aspirations of its affiliate, the RSS. The precedent set by Uttarakhand’s BJP government, which has already enacted the UCC, suggests a clear path forward should the party retain power at the Centre.
However, the UCC is not without its detractors. Critics argue that it could marginalise minority communities by overriding their personal laws and traditions.
Such concerns fuel the debate over the BJP’s secular credentials and raise questions about the party’s respect for cultural pluralism. Moreover, the UCC’s introduction poses constitutional challenges, particularly in reconciling it with protections afforded to tribal and northeastern states.
The BJP’s manifesto boldly addresses the UCC, while the Congress remains silent on the issue, marking a distinct ideological divide.
The BJP’s stance is a calculated risk, potentially redefining India’s socio-legal landscape. It’s a move that could redefine the party’s legacy, either as a unifier of laws or as a polariser of society.
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The BJP’s inclusion of ‘One Nation, One Election (ONOE)’ in its manifesto – a first – has ignited a vigorous debate in political circles. While the proposal appears efficient on the surface, it faces significant scrutiny and scepticism.
The timing of this promise raises eyebrows, especially given the backdrop of criticism about the BJP’s alleged misuse of central agencies during elections. Implementing ONOE would necessitate significant constitutional amendments and could potentially disrupt the delicate balance between state and central powers.
Critics argue that ONOE may erode India’s federal structure by overshadowing regional issues with national narratives. This could sideline smaller parties and states, stifling the diversity of political discourse and governance.
Logistically, the challenges are daunting, requiring extensive legal procedures and adjustments to current assembly terms.
The BJP’s push for ONOE calls for a comprehensive and inclusive debate. All stakeholders, especially regional and smaller parties, must have a voice in shaping such a transformative electoral reform to ensure it aligns with India’s democratic principles and diverse political landscape.
The BJP’s manifesto commitment to implement the CAA upon re-election is a perplexing move. The Act, passed just after the 2019 general elections, lay dormant until the notification of its rules in March. This delay raises questions about the party’s priorities and the timing of the CAA’s implementation.
The absence of the NRC in the manifesto further muddies the waters. Without the NRC, the CAA’s political and ideological benefits for the BJP are unclear. It seems to be a toothless promise, lacking the sharpness of a clear political tool.
This ambiguity is especially evident in West Bengal, where the BJP has campaigned vigorously, yet top leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have notably softened their rhetoric on citizenship issues.
This contrasts with the Trinamool Congress and Mamata Banerjee, who appear to be capitalising on the situation to bolster minority support.
In essence, the BJP’s pledge to implement the CAA seems out of place at this juncture. It’s a commitment that lacks clarity and appears disconnected from the party’s broader campaign narrative, leaving observers to wonder about the true intent behind this manifesto promise.
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The BJP’s promise to facilitate India’s Olympics hosting bid is a strategic stroke, painting the picture of a nation ready to vault onto the global stage. This commitment to back the Indian Olympic Association’s efforts to host the 2036 Olympic Games is not just a nod to national pride but a clear signal of India’s global ambitions.
Hosting the Olympics is a mammoth undertaking that speaks volumes about a country’s capabilities, from infrastructure to international diplomacy. It’s a chance to showcase cultural richness and technological prowess, inviting the world to witness a nation’s progress.
For the BJP, this pledge is a declaration of confidence in India’s potential to not only host the world’s foremost sports event but to excel at it.
This move also reflects a broader vision that transcends the realm of sports. It’s about economic stimulation, urban development, and international recognition. The Olympics could serve as a catalyst for growth, potentially propelling India into a new era of global influence and prestige.
In essence, the BJP’s manifesto promise is a testament to India’s readiness to embrace its role as a rising power.
It’s an ambitious goal, one that will require meticulous planning and execution. Yet, it’s a goal that could redefine India’s international image, marking its transition from a land of ancient heritage to a modern global player.
The Olympic bid is more than a dream; it’s a statement of intent, a challenge to the status quo, and a beacon of India’s unwavering spirit.
The author teaches journalism at St. Xavier's College (autonomous), Kolkata, and is a political columnist.
[Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP News Network Pvt Ltd.]
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