The announcement of the Lok Sabha election dates has ignited a surge of political activity. With Narendra Modi at the helm, the BJP is determined to secure victory, while the Congress is banking on promises of justice to make its mark in the electoral arena. PM Modi has set an ambitious goal of surpassing the 400-seat mark this time. The Indian coalition is attempting to scrutinize the government’s decade-long tenure by posing pertinent questions. It’s noteworthy that the Election Commission has revealed the election schedule, which will span across 7 phases. The voting for the initial phase is slated for April 19, with the final phase scheduled for June 1.
The election results will be announced on June 4. It’s worth noting that in this Lok Sabha election, the BJP will be focusing on issues such as the Ram Temple, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), and Article 370, among others. Many political analysts believe that the BJP’s goal of winning 370 seats is influenced by its commitment to the Ram Temple. Let’s explore through this article the 10 major decisions that the BJP can bring to the electoral forefront this time:
Ram Temple
It’s worth noting that on January 22, this year, the grand consecration ceremony of Bhavya Ram Lalla took place, marking a significant event in the nation’s history. Across the country, there was a palpable enthusiasm surrounding the Ram Temple. BJP leaders attribute this achievement to Prime Minister Modi, heralding it as the realization of a centuries-old dream. Furthermore, in the current Lok Sabha election, the Ram Temple has emerged as a pivotal issue, resonating on a national scale. Its impact is profound, with even the opposition acknowledging the BJP’s advantage in northern India because of it. Many political analysts speculate that the surge in support for the BJP, with an ambitious target of at least 370 seats, is largely fueled by the momentum generated by the Ram Temple issue.
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has remained a contentious issue for an extended period. Just days before the Lok Sabha elections, the central government has enforced the CAA, with its notification duly issued. However, dissent against this decision by the Modi government is being vocalized. Notably, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has unequivocally stated her opposition, declaring that she will not permit the implementation of the CAA in Bengal.
GDP Growth
As per the latest economic data released by the National Statistical Office, it has been revealed that there was an 8.4% growth in India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) during the October-December 2023 quarter. Last year, during the same period, this growth was 4.3%. It’s evident that this is the result of the strong policies of the Modi government. It’s worth mentioning that Prime Minister Modi shared this information on his social media platform. With the Lok Sabha elections approaching, the BJP can capitalize on this issue. It is being speculated that to some extent, this could prove beneficial for the Modi government.
India’s Rise on the Global Stage
Today, India is widely regarded as a global leader, with the world acknowledging the significant impact of its policies on elevating its prestige on the international stage. PM Modi’s dynamic and astute diplomacy has played a crucial role in enhancing India’s standing, despite opposition from the West, exemplified by the procurement of Russian crude oil. Furthermore, India’s increasing popularity worldwide has instilled a sense of hope among its citizens. Political analysts assert that India’s steadfast stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict distinguishes it from other nations, underscoring its unique position on the global stage.
Article 370
On August 5, 2019, Home Minister Amit Shah introduced the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Bill, 2019 in the Rajya Sabha, which was swiftly passed on the same day. Subsequently, it cleared the Lok Sabha on August 6, 2019, and received the President’s assent on August 9, 2019. This pivotal legislation led to the revocation of the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir. Following the President’s order, all provisions of Article 370 were effectively nullified, except for Clause 1, which stipulated the application of the Indian Constitution to the state. The abolition of Article 370 has long been a cornerstone of the BJP’s electoral agenda.
Uniform Civil Code
For the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is considered a significant issue. In simple terms, this law aims to establish a uniform, equal law for all religions and communities in the country. It means that irrespective of religion or community, the law will be the same for everyone. Existing separate laws based on religion and faith would become ineffective in a way. It’s worth mentioning that Uttarakhand has become the first state in the country to implement the Uniform Civil Code.
Viksit Bharat Vision
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has articulated the nation’s aspiration to evolve into a developed country, setting a target year of 2047 for this transformative endeavor. He has reaffirmed his government’s unwavering dedication to realizing this vision. The prospect of a developed India is poised to take center stage in the BJP’s campaign, symbolizing its overarching agenda. Conversely, the opposition has cast doubts on this ambitious goal, dismissing it as merely another political slogan. Nevertheless, the vision of a developed India is anticipated to remain a focal point throughout the electoral campaign, resonating with voters across the country.
Triple Talaq
The BJP had promised to enact a law to curb the misuse of triple talaq. In response to ongoing cases of abuse against Muslim women and continuous complaints, the BJP declared triple talaq as illegal. In 2019, the central government fulfilled this promise by passing the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act. Moreover, provisions for action against the accused have been included in cases where such incidents are reported. The law stipulates a maximum sentence of three years and fines for husbands who give triple talaq. It’s worth noting that outlawing triple talaq was one of the BJP’s election promises, and the BJP has fulfilled it.
Digital India
“Digital India” is an initiative of the Indian government aimed at connecting government departments with the people of the country. Its goal is to ensure that government services can reach the public electronically, without the need for paperwork. It’s worth noting that Digital India has made significant progress towards its objectives.
NRC
The full form of NRC is the National Register of Citizens. The National Register of Citizens Bill is a register that will maintain records of all valid citizens residing in India. The initiation of the NRC began in Assam under the supervision of the Supreme Court in 2013. Currently, the NRC is not implemented in any state other than Assam. However, the government has already clarified that the NRC will be implemented nationwide.
