How BJP’s Trust Is Eroding and the Rise of Rahul Gandhi
Introduction:
From 2014 to 2019, Narendra Modi and the BJP enjoyed unprecedented political dominance in India. Winning over 300 seats in 2019, Modi was hailed as the long-serving, transformative Prime Minister. Yet, by 2024, cracks began to appear in their credibility. Rising prices, unfulfilled promises, and perceived favoritism towards big businesses are making citizens reconsider their trust. This article explores why BJP’s trust is declining and how Rahul Gandhi has emerged as a strong alternative in Indian politics.
1. The 2014–2019 Modi Era: Sky-High Expectations
When Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, the BJP promised sweeping reforms and benefits for ordinary citizens. Promises ranged from affordable air travel for the common man to controlling fuel prices. While Modi’s government won elections convincingly in 2014 and 2019, many promises—like reducing fuel costs or controlling inflation—remained unfulfilled.
The party’s dominance in the 2019 election created overconfidence, with leaders making bold claims like petrol prices dropping to ₹15 per litre—a promise that never materialized.
2. Citizens Start Noticing Broken Promises
After 2019, citizens began seeing the reality behind the claims. Petrol prices skyrocketed to ₹120 per litre in Mumbai, flight tickets became increasingly unaffordable, and the middle class struggled. The privatization of airports and their acquisition by big business conglomerates like Adani and Ambani fueled perceptions of favoritism, contradicting Modi’s earlier promise that “ordinary people should also enjoy air travel.”
3. Media Shift and Rise of Independent Platforms
Until 2019, mainstream media largely projected a favorable image of the government. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown accelerated a shift from television to mobile platforms. People began relying on independent creators on YouTube and social media, uncovering discrepancies between promises and reality.
This increased scrutiny exposed the BJP’s overreach, misuse of institutions like the ED and CBI against opposition parties, and perceived monopolistic tendencies. Citizens began questioning the party’s integrity.
4. Political Dynamics: The Role of Opposition
A strong opposition is critical for any democracy. For years, the Congress party appeared weak, giving BJP unchecked dominance. However, Rahul Gandhi’s resurgence, particularly through the Bharat Jodo Yatra, helped him project a strong leadership image. His consistent criticism of government excesses, focus on constitutional values, and ability to connect with the youth made him a credible alternative.
5. Key Reasons Behind BJP’s Declining Trust
- Broken Promises: From affordable flights to fuel prices, many high-profile promises were unmet.
- Perceived Favoritism: Close ties with business magnates like Adani and Ambani reinforced the perception that the government favors the rich.
- Misuse of Power: Use of investigative agencies against opposition leaders while shielding friendly politicians damaged credibility.
- Exposure via Digital Platforms: Independent content creators revealed the gap between promises and reality, making citizens more aware.
6. Conclusion: A Changing Political Landscape
By 2024, the BJP faces challenges it hadn’t seen before. Citizens’ trust is eroding, and the opposition is gaining credibility. Rahul Gandhi’s strong public presence and clear messaging have positioned him as a potential Prime Ministerial candidate, showing that Indian democracy still has room for change.
The elections will reveal whether BJP can regain its lost trust or if India’s citizens are ready for a new political chapter.
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