Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed more than a decade as the nation’s leader, yet the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) continues to rely heavily on his image and name to drive their election campaigns. Whether it’s state elections, national elections, or by-elections, BJP’s leaders often use PM Modi’s accomplishments and leadership to rally voters.
While there’s no denying that PM Modi’s tenure has seen notable successes and the initiation of major projects, recent election results have not mirrored the expectations. Despite the Modi-centric approach, several electoral outcomes have not gone in BJP’s favor, with the latest example being the 2024 general elections where BJP anticipated 400+ seats but fell short. Here are three key reasons why the Modi wave appears to be waning:
1. Over-Reliance on PM Modi’s Image
One of the primary reasons is the excessive use of PM Modi’s name and image in BJP’s election campaigns. Modi has been India’s Prime Minister for over 10 years, and while his face is synonymous with BJP, the continuous use of the same figure in every election is starting to backfire. Politics thrives on change and new faces, but BJP’s strategy of focusing predominantly on Modi has caused voter fatigue. It gives the impression that the party lacks other strong leaders, leading to a perception that Modi is the only face of the BJP, which has started to irritate the electorate. The repeated use of the same face and message has led many voters to feel disengaged.
2. Discontent with PM Modi’s Aggressive Policies
While many of Modi’s policies were intended for long-term benefits, their aggressive implementation has alienated a significant portion of the electorate. For example, decisions such as the 2016 demonetization and the sudden nationwide lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic were seen as abrupt and poorly planned. These policies, though intended to address pressing issues, negatively impacted many people and led to widespread frustration.
Another example is the 2020 farmers’ protests, which arose in response to the contentious farm laws that were eventually repealed after months of protests. The abrupt manner in which these laws were introduced, coupled with the government’s initial refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue with farmers, created a sense of resentment. Many voters have come to view Modi’s leadership style as too authoritarian, leading to a perception that his government is out of touch with public sentiment.
3. Modi’s Extended Tenure as PM
After winning a third consecutive term in 2024, Prime Minister Modi became a rare leader in Indian politics to hold the post for so long. While his longevity in office reflects his popularity, it has also contributed to a growing sense of voter fatigue. In India’s dynamic political landscape, prolonged leadership can often lead to calls for fresh faces and new ideas.
The electorate, having heard similar speeches and promises from Modi over the past decade, has become less motivated by his rhetoric. His once galvanizing oratory no longer inspires the same enthusiasm. Many voters are now seeking change, and Modi’s continued dominance has started to feel repetitive. This has led to a growing sentiment that India needs new leadership, which is hurting BJP’s electoral prospects.
In conclusion, the Modi wave, which was once a formidable force in Indian politics, is losing its momentum due to over-reliance on Modi’s persona, the backlash against his policy decisions, and voter fatigue after a decade of his leadership. As BJP moves forward, it may need to recalibrate its strategy to focus on new leaders and fresh ideas to maintain its political dominance.