India just had another massive election and guess what? Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has swept it again. It’s like watching a cricket match where one team is hitting sixes in every over, BJP led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji has scored a hat-trick, winning big for the third time in a row in the parliamentary elections. So, what’s making majority Indians choose the BJP?
Let’s dive in
Let’s talk about the man himself SHIRI NARENDRA MODI, Love him or not you can’t ignore him. He is like that super star who is in every other movie. Modi’s personality is larger than life. He’s not just a politician, he became a brand. When you think of the BJP, you think of Modi. His fans see him as a strong leader who’s not afraid to make big moves. Remember when he announced demonetization on TV one night? That’s the kind of bold step that makes his supporters go, Now that’s a decisive leader.
Modi’s background plays a big part too. He often talks about his humble beginnings, how he has lived his years before entering politics. Many Indians relate to this rags-to-riches story. They think, If he can make it, maybe we can too. In a country where many feel that politics is a game for the elite, Modi comes across as one of their own. His simple lifestyle, he’s not seen in fancy suits or driving luxury cars, adds to this image. It’s like he is saying, I’m just like you, working hard for our country.
Now, let’s zoom out from Modi to the BJP’s big ideas. Their main pitch is, New India or Viksit Bharat. It’s a vision where India isn’t just getting by, it is thriving. They promise bullet trains, smart cities, digital payments everywhere, basically, turning India into a high-tech wonderland. For a lot of young Indians who’ve grown up seeing the West’s advancements, this is music to their ears. The BJP is saying, Why should we be behind? We can have those shiny things too.
This links to their focus on the economy. The BJP claims that under their rule, India’s economy has become more robust. They point to things like the GST (Goods and Services Tax) that unified India’s tax system. Before this, different states had different taxes, making business a real headache. Now, it is more streamlined. They also talk about schemes like (Make in India) to boost manufacturing. The idea is to make India a factory for the world, just like China. Many business folks and middle-class Indians who want more jobs & growth see this as a step in the right direction.
Let’s not forget nationalism, it’s a big part of the BJP’s appeal. They champion the idea of a strong, proud India that doesn’t bow down to anyone. This strikes a chord with many who feel India hasn’t gotten its due respect on the world stage. When there’s tension with neighbors like Pakistan or China, the BJP’s tough talk resonates. People see them as guardians of the nation’s honor. After the Pulwama attack in 2019, India’s airstrikes in Pakistan under Modi’s leadership were seen as a bold response. Many voters felt, Finally, a government that hits back.
BJP’s big moves like building the Ram Temple in Ayodhya or removing Article 370 in Kashmir are seen as fulfilling long-pending desire of patriotic indians. BJP’s stance makes these voters think, At least, someone is standing up for our aspirations.
Their work on welfare schemes is another big factor. Programs like Ujjwala Yojana, which provides free gas connections to poor families, have been game-changers. Many women who used to cook with firewood, facing health issues from the smoke, now have clean gas stoves. Similarly, the Swachh Bharat Mission’s drive to build toilets has made life easier for millions. Then there’s the Jan Dhan Yojana, helping the poor open bank accounts. During Covid, when the government sent cash directly to these accounts, people saw the benefits firsthand. These schemes make many feel that BJP cares for the common person’s daily struggles.
Speaking of Covid, BJP’s handling of the pandemic has both critics & admirers. Critics point to the tough times during the second wave. But many also praise the government’s vaccination drive. India not only vaccinated its huge population but also sent vaccines to other countries. This was seen as India helping the world in a crisis. BJP’s supporters say, Look, even rich nations struggled with Covid. Our government did its best in an unprecedented situation.
Infrastructure is another area where BJP claims big wins. Under them, India’s been on a road-building spree. Highways are expanding, and even far-flung villages are getting better connected. In cities, there are more metros, airports, and fancy bus stations. For the average person who used to be stuck in traffic or had to take bumpy bus rides, these changes are visible. It’s like the country is getting a facelift. BJP’s message is, We’re not just talking, you can see the progress with your own eyes.
They have also pushed a lot for digital India. Today, nearly everyone uses UPI for payments sending money is as easy as sending a text. The CoWIN app for vaccine bookings or the Aarogya Setu for Covid tracking showed how tech can help in a crisis. Many see India leapfrogging into a digital age under the BJP. For a nation that once struggled with landline phones, having powerful apps in every pocket feels like a tech revolution. The party’s pitch is, We’re not just catching up, in digital, we’re showing the world how it’s done.
Now, foreign policy an area where many feel the BJP shines. Under them, India seems more assertive on the global stage. Modi is often seen hugging world leaders, speaking at big international events. Whether it’s at the G20 or climate summits, India’s voice seems louder. BJP argues that they’ve improved ties with the West without ditching old friends like Russia. During the Ukraine war, when India bought Russian oil despite Western pressure, many saw it as a smart, independent move. The message is, We’re not in anyone’s camp, we put India’s interests first.
Their supporters also point to less corruption at the top. In the past, India saw big scams that shook people’s faith. Under the BJP, while there are allegations at lower levels, there haven’t been massive scandals implicating central ministers. Many voters, tired of hearing about crores being stolen, feel relieved. BJP’s image is, Our top leaders are clean, they’re here to serve, not to get rich.
Let’s talk about their election machine, it’s something else, BJP is not just active during election months they’re on the ground all year. Their workers are always out there, attending local events, helping with community issues. It’s like they have an army of volunteers who believe in their cause. Add to this Modi’s massive rallies, their smart use of social media, catchy slogans, Many voters feel that BJP is more in touch, always around, not just when they need votes.
Their ideological clarity also attracts many. You might agree or disagree with the BJP, but you generally know where they stand. On issues like Ram Mandir or Kashmir, their position has been consistent for decades. Some see this as a sign of commitment, a party that sticks to its core beliefs. In contrast, they argue that some opponents change stances based on political winds. This consistency makes many think, At least with the BJP, you know what you’re getting.
The BJP has also adapted its message for different regions. In South India, where Hindi imposition is a worry, they talk about celebrating all languages. In the Northeast, where there are concerns about mainland dominance, they highlight local leaders and cultural respect. Even in states with strong regional parties, like Bengal or Tamil Nadu, the BJP tries to blend national pride with local sentiments. It’s like they’re saying, Being a proud Indian doesn’t mean giving up your regional identity.
Their pitch to first-time voters is interesting too. A big chunk of Indians voting now were born after India’s economic liberalization in the ’90s. They didn’t see the old socialist days. For them, aspiration is a key, they want opportunities, not just welfare. The BJP’s talk of startups, digital innovation, and global success stories appeals to this group. Young voters often say, Other parties talk about what they’ll give us, BJP talks about what we can achieve.
Now, the BJP’s choice of candidates also plays a part. While they have veteran politicians, they also field fresh faces Advocates, doctors, corporate professionals, actors etc. This sends a message, Politics isn’t just for career politicians. In 2019, they gave a ticket to Gautam Gambhir, the cricket star, in Delhi. Such moves excite voters who want outsiders to shake up the system. It’s like saying, Don’t just vote; you too can join and change things.
Their work on gender issues has won them female supporters too. Schemes like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the Girl Child, Educate Her) resonate in a country grappling with gender disparities. The push for more toilets has been a boon for rural women who earlier faced risks going out in the dark.
The party’s environmental moves have also impressed some. Yes, there are debates about development versus conservation. But initiatives like the solar push, India’s now a leader in solar power, show a green turn. Efforts to clean the Ganga, India’s holiest yet highly polluted river, mix ecology with tradition. Electric vehicle incentives are nudging cities towards cleaner air. Some urban voters, worried about climate change, see these as positive steps.
Here’s another factor—the opposition’s disunity. In many states, parties opposing the BJP don’t come together. Sometimes they even fight each other more than they fight the BJP! This splits the non-BJP votes. In our voting system, you don’t need a majority to win, just more votes than others. So, while the BJP’s opponents argue among themselves, BJP often comes through the middle to victory. Many of its supporters say, Even if you don’t fully love us, we’re more united and decisive than the rest.
There’s also a feeling among some that the BJP is a meritocratic party. Unlike some parties seen as family-run, where leadership is almost inherited, the BJP is viewed as more open. Modi himself rose from a humble worker to the top. Many state BJP leaders aren’t from political dynasties. This appeals to those who dislike family rule in politics. The message is, In our party, your work speaks, not your surname.
Lastly, there’s an emotional angle. BJP often invokes India’s ancient glory, the times when it was a global leader in science, arts, and philosophy. They argue that centuries of invasions and colonialism diminished this spirit. Their promise is to restore that lost pride, to make India a Vishwa Guru again. For many who’ve grown up hearing about India’s golden past, this strikes a deep chord. It’s not just about GDP growth, it’s about reclaiming a grand heritage..
In a democracy, every party’s goal is to convince voters that their vision aligns with the nation’s needs. As these results show, the BJP has been remarkably successful at doing just that. Whether you’re a fan or a critic, understanding why so many are choosing them is key to grasping India’s current political landscacom
ZAMAN NOOR
Writer is a Public Opinion Analyst, Columnist and Actively Engaged In Peace Activism.
Can be reached at
noor.penning@gmail.com