PM Modi’s Campaign Shift: From Development to Fear
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s election campaign in Uttar Pradesh has taken a surprising turn, shifting from promesas of a developed India to generating fear among voters. After the first round of voting, Modi has repeatedly asserted that electing the Congress party would lead to the loss of women’s mangalsutras, sparking concerns about the potential for communal tensions.
Polarization as BJP Strategy
Playing up majoritarian fears has been a key strategy for the BJP in the past, but after two terms in power, a weakened opposition, and the inclusion of secular parties in the NDA alliance, it seemed that the party was moving towards a post-polarization scenario in western Uttar Pradesh.
Opposition’s Counter-Narrative
However, the opposition has effectively countered this narrative by exploiting concerns among marginalized groups about the BJP’s ‘400-plus’ seat target. They have portrayed a brute majority as a threat to the Constitution and reservation policies, which has resonated with voters.
Rhetoric Shift
It is noteworthy that PM Modi has not mentioned the ‘400-plus’ target in recent rallies, indicating a shift in strategy. The Congress manifesto, released in April, outlined plans for wealth redistribution, which Modi has labeled as ‘communist’ thinking.
BJP’s Confidence in Constitution
Despite the fear-mongering, a BJP minister in Uttar Pradesh has assured that the basic structure of the Constitution will not be altered. However, he has not endorsed the ‘400-plus’ seat target.
Polarization Tactics
In the run-up to the first round of elections, BJP supporters on WhatsApp groups expressed hopes for a Hindu Rashtra and other polarizing measures. However, a low turnout in some constituencies suggests that the BJP’s messaging may not be resonating with voters as effectively as expected.
Opposition’s Strategy
The opposition’s strategy of keeping a low profile and focusing on local issues has proved successful in some areas. The Congress candidate in Saharanpur, Imran Masood, has mobilized Rajput anger by securing the support of the Bhim Army.
Creativity on Social Media
Social media has played a role in creating a parallel political universe. A video of Yogi Adityanath with Sangeet Som and Sanjeev Balyan was re-edited by a Rajput group to depict Balyan as a defector. Additionally, some BJP supporters have illegally released exit poll results on social media.
