BJP Karnataka loss: A momentous day unfolded on May 13, 2023, marked by two significant incidents in separate states. However, the contrasting narratives woven by the media coverage painted a tale that diverged remarkably. With the Congress party’s long-awaited victory in Karnataka, the media fervently embraced the news, showcasing a loyalty that appeared to surpass even the most dedicated Congress members. Yet, amidst this celebratory uproar, the same media outlets turned a blind eye to the events unfurling in Uttar Pradesh—a missed opportunity to glean a pivotal lesson that held relevance not only for national politics but also for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Leadership matters
In the 2023 Karnataka elections, every conceivable trick in the political playbook was unleashed. Yet, in a bitter realization, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) discovered that there is no cure for sheer incompetence. Amidst a relatively steady vote share, the BJP faced a harsh and resounding lesson—the seats, the true measure of power, slipped through their grasp.
There is no doubt about the fact that Karnataka Assembly election results, were verdict tilted decisively against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rather than in favor of the Congress. To a significant extent, the Congress effectively utilized tactics rooted in regionalism and camouflaged appeasement under the guise of secularism, ultimately swaying the outcome in their favor.
But by this logic, Congress and even Samajwadi Party should’ve made significant gains in the recently concluded urban council elections in Uttar Pradesh. However, the reality was way different, with BJP romping home with all the 17 mayoral seats of the Nagar Nigams, and a lion’s share in almost everything, from Nagar Panchayat to Municipal Corporation Elections. I hope you understand.
Also read: Karnataka election results: Time for some serious introspection for BJP
This opportunity must not be missed
But what does it offer to BJP? Opportunities, and multiple at that. Now compiling every single one of these would be cumbersome. But the recently concluded urban polls in UP have a solution to most of the problems BJP is currently facing.
First and foremost is local leadership. It is time that BJP leaders, especially those depending on PM Modi for even trivial matters like campaigning let go of these crutches. “Parachute leaders” have never been of any benefit to BJP, and states like Bengal and now Karnataka are now testimony to the same. Forget states like UP and Asom, one can just look at Telangana.
Also, for a state, where winning even 1 Lok Sabha seat, looked like an uphill task for the ruling dispensation, the state faction can cause a major upset, should circumstances be in their favour. This would be nothing less than a rude shock to many, especially those, who are gloating online that “South India has kicked out BJP”! The game is not over buddy!
Next, is sticking to basics, especially the core ideals. Even if Atiq Ahmed case is discarded, there is a reason why UP is now the most preferred destination for anyone but criminals. This state has proved why strong local leadership matters, something the prominent BJP leaders once heavily stressed on ironically. Don’t believe us, then just focus on how BJP won Deoband, a classic Islamist bastion, without employing the tricks Karnataka BJP made a classic mess of.
Also read: 3 states, 3 different leaders. One common demand: No Gay Marriages!
This lesson is necessary
In the present scenario, it should come as no surprise if the BJP secures an impressive tally of over 75 seats solely from Uttar Pradesh in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Thus, the setback in Karnataka appears less as a defeat and more as a valuable lesson. Hello! Hello! Why resort to “parachute leaders” and unscrupulous tactics when the strength of local leadership can yield abundant success? States like Uttar Pradesh and Assam have unequivocally demonstrated that with robust local leadership, elections can be won even without the charismatic presence of Prime Minister Modi taking center stage.
Based on the prevailing dynamics, it becomes evident that states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and the North East have adopted a comparable approach, albeit tailored to suit their individual strategies deemed most effective.
The BJP’s defeat in Bengal, Bihar, and Karnataka cannot be attributed solely to insufficient campaigning efforts; it was a consequence of abysmal local leadership. If the BJP genuinely desires victory in the upcoming 2024 elections, they must wholeheartedly embrace the UP Model and extend its implementation nationwide. This pragmatic approach stands as the sole viable path forward for the party.
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