BJP lost because of six big reasons -- Analysis
BJP lost because of six big reasons
Pathetic Messaging: It had good messages, but its promises were not believed by the electorate. For instance, the issue of security was blunted by Congress, as it repeatedly brought up the Kandahar issue. As I watched several debates on TV, I saw BJP leaders squirm whenever Kandahar was brought up. Frankly, Shri LKA was not percieved as majboot netaa, and his actions in past were not considered to be nirnayak.
Weak Opposition: Over last five years, the BJP had done a pathetic job as an opposition. For instance, I have a feeling, that on the issue of nuclear deal, BJP actually bailed out Congress (several of BJP's members did not vote against it). Ditto for terrorism, corruption (Natwar Singh), Quattrochi, .... I really do not understand as to what constrained BJP to come out in total open against UPA over last 5 yrs.
Fratricidal Wars: Between diverse elements of Sangh parivar, and also within BJP. The loss of Rajasthan assembly (and now Lok Sabha) should be sufficient for illustrative purposes.
Zero Presences in UP: In 1997, BJP had 50 seats from UP. In 2004, it had 10. Today it has 12. Do you think that this does not matter!!! UP is a game changer. BJP can ignore it only to its own peril.
Cultural: Indian culture is seeing very fundamental challenges, as the really "cool" stuff is beamed down thru TV channels which promote extreme versions of Western lifestyles and values. While the average Indian has not yet adopted these mores in very large numbers, the cultural elite of India (which also imo includes regular IT folks) consciously or unconsciously set the aspirational standards and goals for the aam aadmi. And the image projected by BJP as a party is inconsistent with what is hip in the eyes of aam aadmi (remember Massey Sahib). Thus the regular urban school/college going youth, I have a feeling, is emotionally not engaged with Hindu organization/ ideology. THis is a long term challenge, which will only amplify with passage of time, unless an effective strategy is crafted and put in place to dull the impact of this importan element.
