Election Outcome Aside, The Real Concern is the Cost of BJP's Victory

Over the past few years, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government at the centre in India has found itself embroiled in numerous controversies, making a “clean” emergence seemingly impossible. Recent issues surrounding Electoral Bonds, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), and the freezing of accounts of the Congress Party have compounded its challenges. While some may argue that the BJP's victory in the 2024 general elections is a foregone conclusion, the question remains: will it be a victory marked by integrity and transparency, or will it be tainted by allegations of mismanagement and corruption?

In reality, the BJP's promises to its electorate during election campaigns in 2014, 2019, and subsequent periods—such as poverty eradication, youth employment, law and order maintenance, corruption eradication, democratic institution strengthening, and the establishment of diverse cultural perspectives in governance—remain largely unfulfilled. Instead, the party in power has disappointed its voters by descending into institutionalised corruption, amassing around Rs. 6,000 crore through electoral bonds, the highest among all political parties in India, which received a total of about Rs. 20,000 crores. How can fair elections be contested when one political party enjoys a substantial financial advantage, while its rivals struggle with limited resources?

Once again, the BJP government at the centre is openly wielding state machinery such as the Income Tax department, Central Bureau of Investigation, and the Enforcement Directorate to exert pressure on opposition political leaders. These leaders are coerced into joining the BJP or face legal action orchestrated by these government-controlled agencies. Upon joining the BJP, their past transgressions are conveniently overlooked, presenting them as paragons of virtue. This orchestrated strategy aims to render the opposition impotent and inconsequential, ensuring the ruling party remains the sole electoral choice. This blatant misuse of power by a ruling party at the centre is a grave concern for the health of our democracy.

In fact, the BJP capitalised on its vigorous anti-corruption campaign targeting the Congress party's governance from 2004 to 2014, which significantly bolstered its electoral prospects not only at the centre but also in various states. However, the current state of the Indian economy is far from satisfactory, with the country's debt significantly higher than it was in 2014. Despite notable growth in the infrastructure sector, India's GDP still stagnates at 6-7%, a worrying trend given that many developed economies have already achieved double-digit growth rates. Consequently, the failure of the country's economy to generate adequate employment opportunities for millions of educated yet unemployed youths remains a pressing issue.

Rather than addressing these economic challenges, the central government has redirected its focus towards controversial religious issues such as the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi, and the Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura, seemingly for political gains. This diversion of attention from critical economic matters to religious and political issues is a cause for concern. It is imperative for the government to prioritise the pressing economic concerns and refrain from exploiting divisive religious issues for political ends.

Even if such contentious issues need to be worked upon, it must involve deliberations with all stakeholders and must be guided by fundamental values that would help the country progress. Relying solely on the arousal of communal passions risks increasing communal discord and adversely impacts the socio-cultural fabric of the country. 

It is the responsibility of a political party to uphold such an outlook in the interest of consolidating society and the nation. Regrettably, the BJP finds itself entrenched in a self-devised strategy aimed at eliminating opposition parties by sowing discord among them through various means. This undermines the essence of a healthy and vibrant democracy, as a robust opposition is also the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. 

Governments may change with time, but political parties endure over the years. While short-term gains and immediate victories can be enticing, it's crucial to consider how the pursuit of these wins might dilute the party's principles and compromise its long-term prospects. Therefore, any strategy aimed at securing fleeting success should be carefully reevaluated to ensure the party's sustained strength and relevance in the years to come.

The BJP's overall performance, particularly during its two terms, showcases notable achievements such as attracting substantial foreign investments to bolster infrastructure, fostering significant scientific and technological advancements, and enhancing India's global image. Additionally, the provision of modern medical facilities, especially amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, and the strengthening of military capabilities with modern weaponry stand as commendable accomplishments.

However, the BJP's unethical attempts to manipulate media and suppress opposition under the pretext of combating corruption pose a significant threat to Indian democracy. These actions undermine institutions, allowing the ruling party to wield unchecked power. Whether it's the appointment of Election Commissioners, the passage of Bills in the Lok Sabha without adequate debate, or attempts to destabilise non-BJP governments, the party's actions erode the foundations of democratic governance.

Moreover, the BJP has spared no effort in ousting democratically elected governments led by non-BJP parties, as witnessed in Maharashtra, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Assam. Such actions undermine democratic norms and promote a culture of political turmoil. It is important for the government to uphold democratic principles and respect institutional integrity for the sake of the country’s democratic fabric. 

Certainly, these concerns weigh heavily on the minds of the country's citizens today, and no political party, including the BJP, should assume an inherent entitlement to governance. Instead of engaging in vendettas against rival parties and leaders, the BJP must prioritise its electoral agenda centred on socio-economic growth, social cohesion, poverty alleviation, employment generation, law enforcement, counterterrorism efforts, corruption eradication, and ensuring good governance.

It is crucial for the BJP to shift its focus from populist measures such as free-ration schemes and concentrate on sustainable strategies that foster long-term development and progress. Additionally, the party must uphold the principles of democracy by respecting the rule of law, safeguarding institutional integrity, and promoting inclusive governance.

Furthermore, it is essential for the BJP to uphold the values and ideals that promote social and political resurgence. By embracing these principles, the party can strengthen its moral standing and contribute to the noble endeavour of nation-building. This entails nurturing a society where all communities coexist peacefully, with mutual respect and trust. 

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