The Quandary Of Supporting Modi But Not The BJP

One of the most confounding of the stats in these days of stat attacks is the high percentage of voters’ support for Narendra Modi and low support for the BJP in some states. In a presidential style of democracy it makes sense. However in a parliamentary system, it is impossible. Be that as it may, it certainly says a few things about the status quo. I will try collating my thoughts on the matter a way out of this.

1. The lack of support for the BJP even in the face of extreme anti incumbency tells you the abject lack of leadership in the BJP during the last ten years of LK Advani. His entire tenure was to let regional parties thrive under the assumption that they would come back the NDA fold when needed. He left the states to selfish and incompetent leaders in charge of states in exchange for their loyalty while he trying to position himself for the right place and right time.

2. Are the voters confused about our parliamentary system where you have to vote for the party to get the PM. A rather large number of polled voters support regional parties in the general election but want Modi as PM. Either they are confused about our system or their regional aspirations trump any national considerations. These voters are going to handicap the next government by denying a clear majority to a possible Modi government which would hamper implementation of decisions, tough or otherwise, essential for our future.

3. The solution to this quandary may lie in careful marketing. They need to see Narendra Modi in person on stage adorned by BJP paraphernalia, with local BJP leaders. This association may force the realization that the man and the party are inseparable even though he is running a presidential style campaign. With one moth remaining, this may be easier said than done. However, Modi and his team of brilliant organizers and campaigners have organized very large number of campaign rallies across the nation. It remains to be seen if the rallies of the past and future will any and all doubts about Modi and the party he belongs to.