As India eagerly awaits the Lok Sabha poll results, this year’s election has been deemed as one of the most polarized by political analysts. Parties have strategically utilized caste and religion to secure votes, with the BJP focusing on integrating backward castes under the Hindutva umbrella, and the I.N.D.I.A. bloc targeting OBC voters by promising a caste survey if elected.
The election witnessed unprecedented polarization based on caste, religion, and region, according to poll rights expert Jagdeep Chokar. Social engineering by the BJP is now facing challenges as traditional OBC vote banks realign to prioritize issues like unemployment and inflation, as highlighted by Dr. Iftekhar Ahmad Ansari of Aligarh Muslim University.
While caste and religion play significant roles in Indian politics, there is a shifting focus towards aspirational politics, noted Political Science professor Sushila Ramaswamy. Voter sentiments reflect these complex dynamics, with individuals like Radha Rani emphasizing the need for a caste survey, and Padmini Srivastava expressing support for the BJP due to the Ram temple issue.
The electoral outcome hinges on navigating the delicate balance between “mandal” and “kamandal” politics, showcasing the evolving landscape of religious and caste-based considerations in shaping India’s democratic discourse.
Published on 03 June 2024, 11:50 IST
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