‘400 par’ slogan on backburner now as BJP changes tactic

The first phase of general elections concluded on Friday where 102 constituencies across 21 states went for polling. However, the BJP making a diplomatic move, has changed its election strategy. In a notable shift, that the party has decided to steer clear of the ‘400 par’ slogan. The upcoming election will now revolve entirely different strategy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated this shift. Prime Minister Modi’s recent rallies have made it clear that the party’s aim is to direct its attention entirely towards targeting the Congress. The goal is to portray the election as a direct confrontation between Rahul Gandhiand Modi. Initially, they alleged the influence of the Muslim League on the manifesto. They have resumed their endeavours to corner the Congress by closely examining the manifesto.

Although BJP has tactfully raised this issue, the opposition has associated BJP’s slogan of surpassing 400 with a plot to abolish reservation. They are attempting to convey to the public that once BJP secures 400 seats, it will amend the Constitution drafted by Ambedkar.

After Prime Minister Modi’s criticism, Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh released a video expressing fears that BJP would abolish reservation if it reaches 400 seats. Reports from certain states after the first phase of voting indicated that communities benefiting from reservation voted against BJP. BJP strategists have recognized the potential negative impact of the 400 slogan.

As a result, Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah started discussing reservation in their speeches. We want to clarify that there will be no changes to the reservation policy. The opposition is spreading lies to create fear.

After Modi raised questions, the entire party, including Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge, came under fire.

The Prime Minister stated in his speeches for two consecutive days that Congress has pledged in its manifesto to confiscate land, property, and jewellery if it comes to power. The land taken from you will be distributed to those with more children, which is perceived to imply it will benefit Muslims. Congress has proposed conducting an economic survey along with the caste census in its manifesto to assess individuals’ financial status. By cutting this issue of opposition, BJP made minority issue on the basis of Congress manifesto. BJP started playing the elections on the pitch of polarization. Here Congress has tried to answer by making the plan to end reservation an issue. If Congress and opposition play the issue of reservation properly then challenges for BJP will increase.