Battle Lines Drawn For 2024 General Elections By: Prof. Neelam Mahajan Singh. The Emerging World 24.03.2024

Battle Lines Drawn For 2024 General Elections 

By: Prof. Neelam Mahajan Singh

The Emerging World 24.03.2024

• The general elections for Lok Sabha will be held in seven phases and the results will be declared thereafter. It's a do or die battle for NDA Vs I.N.D.I.A. alliance. The bomb of electoral bond's scam is likely to impact the voter's choice, although marginally. BJP is leading in the announcement of maximum number of candidates, while other political parties are still struggling. The stage is set for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls as the BJP and Opposition parties have begun their poll campaigns. The electoral verdict will hinge on promises that resonate with voters, shaping the course of our nation's future destiny. The 2024 general elections augur a profound chapter in India's political horizon, weaving a complex tapestry of ideologies, manifesto and vision. The Bharatiya Janata Party led NDA's narrative, intertwined with 'Ram Mandir and Hindutva', resonates deeply, evoking fervour and steadfast allegiance, to the Hindu voters. The Congress and opposition's banners unfurl with elan of 'Mohabbat ki Dukan' (love) embodying inclusivity. These brushstrokes on the canvas of public discourse promise unity, acceptance, and a brighter tomorrow, so to say! As the electoral drama unfolds, five pivotal themes guide our nation's trajectory: unity in diversity, economic resurgence, social justice, environmental stewardship, and global diplomacy. In this intricate dance of ideologies, the electorate holds the compass, shaping the course of our nation's destiny. 

The 2024 general elections loom large, with contentious themes like the 'Construction of Ram Mandir' and BJP's usage of Hinduism taking centerstage. BJP's narrative weaves Hindutva with India's heritage, bolstered by P.M. Narendra Modi's initiatives and patriotic fervour. In contrast, the opposition treads cautiously, grappling with 'Hindutva's rise' and an apparent defensive stance. Their absence at the Ram Mandir's inauguration plays into BJP's narrative, casting them as anti-Hindu. The Ram Mandir symbolises BJP's renewed vigour, while the opposition struggles to counter, Hindutva's appeal. 'Modi Ki Guarantee' Vs. Opposition's economic resurgence are the key factors. The State Bank of India has filed compliance affidavit in the Supreme Court of India, with all details including alphanumeric numbers. In this most of the political parties have taken funds from the purchaser of the Electoral Bonds. BJP's electoral anthem, "Modi ki Guarantee", reverberates with promises of welfare and security for all across society. In contrast, the opposition's tune lacks cohesion, with disjointed verses failing to form a compelling narrative. While Congress highlights initiatives for youth and women, it struggles to harmonise amid uncoordinated pledges. The BJP's momentum grows with resolute actions like the C.A.A. notification, showcasing commitment to promises. Scrapping Special Status vide Article 370 and 35-A, in Jammu and Kashmir is widely appreciated. The people of J.K. are also wanting educational resources and economic prosperity for the young generation. What will be the impact ofminority voters in 2024 elections? There's not a single muslim MP of BJP. The BJP's recent unveiling of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is poised to be a game-changer in the upcoming elections, particularly in eastern and north-eastern India. Minority voting behaviour will be under the microscope, with potential consolidations, reshaping the political landscape. For instance, in West Bengal, the notification could galvanise Muslim support towards Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress. As stated above the Electoral Bonds case will be a litmus test. While the opposition once brandished electoral bonds as a formidable weapon, their current reticence speaks volumes. This silence is amplified by the fact that parties like Trinamool Congress, Congress, and others have also indulged in the electoral bond system. Allegations of crony capitalism and quid pro quo between the BJP and corporate giants loom large, casting shadows on political ethics. As citizens scrutinise the nexus between power and privileges, electoral bonds beckon as a stark barometer of political integrity and accountability. P.M. Narendra Modi's powerful oratory skills and vision for future has dimmed the opposition's narrative. The opposition's spotlight on BJP's alleged divisive strategies, bipolar stance and its plea for inclusivity under the banner of "Mohabbat Ki Dukan" presents a compelling argument. Yet, the pulse of public sentiment towards these narratives remains uncertain. BJP's resounding emphasis on nationalism resonates with its forward-looking vision for India. Proposals like the Uniform Civil Code and the concept of one nation, one election encapsulate this vision, promising streamlined governance and societal cohesion. In retrospect amidst this ideological clash, the electorate grapples with deciphering which vision aligns more closely with their aspirations and the nation's future. It's sad that in seventy seven years of India's independence, we have been unsuccessful in providing the basic structure of living to our citizens. It's just another exercise of celebration of democracy, as citizens enjoy their choices to cast votes. The fact still is that we have socially, politically and economically failed to empower each citizen of India. The concentration of wealth in a few hands echoes of crony capitalism, sapping the vitality of a equitable distribution of resources. India has become the most populated nation of the world. Let's ensure that voter's cast their votes with a vision to India's future. Otherwise the general elections of 2024, will be yet another event that takes place every five years.

• Prof. Neelam Mahajan Singh •

(Sr. Journalist, Author, Doordarshan Personality, Solicitor for Human Rights Protection and Philanthropist)

singhnofficial@gmail.com