Be it as the Chief Minister of Gujarat or the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi has always ruled with a commanding majority. In his first two terms, Modi led the BJP with clear majorities, allowing his administration to operate without significant obstacles. However, Modi 3.0 is different. Despite winning 240 seats, the BJP must rely on allies for the remaining 32 seats to form a majority government.
This marks a significant shift from leading a single-party government to heading a coalition. Can Prime Minister Modi, who is used to absolute control, effectively manage coalition dynamics? Will we see a new Modi, one who governs inclusively and diplomatically, reminiscent of Atal Bihari Vajpayee's style?
Coalition Politics Post-1984
Since 1984, coalition politics have been the norm in India. After Indira Gandhi's assassination, the Congress party won 404 seats in the subsequent elections. Since then, no single party has secured a majority to form a government. From 1989 to 2014, both Congress and BJP led coalition governments. The political landscape changed in 2014 when BJP emerged as the largest national party.
Back then, winning 200 seats was challenging for national parties, but the BJP secured 282 seats on its own in 2014, surpassing the 272-seat majority needed to form the government. Modi's charisma, honed over 13 years as Gujarat's Chief Minister, and his nationwide popularity, particularly the Gujarat Model, were instrumental in this victory.
Despite Majority, Allies Included
Even with a majority in 2014, Modi included allies in his cabinet, demonstrating inclusiveness. His tenure saw initiatives like Make in India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, demonetization, GST implementation, and significant privatization reforms. Modi's strong foreign policy and extensive international engagements boosted India's global standing.
These achievements, coupled with decisive actions like the Balakot airstrike in response to the Pulwama attack, bolstered Modi's image ahead of the 2019 elections. BJP's dominance continued, winning 303 seats, driven by Modi's appeal and decisive governance.
Achieving Long-term Goals
Upon re-election in 2019, Modi pursued BJP's long-term goals, such as revoking Article 370, constructing the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, enacting CAA, and abolishing Triple Talaq. His government also initiated the construction of a new parliament building and introduced women's reservations, among other reforms.
Despite significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation, Modi's strategic moves ensured continued BJP dominance. He set a target of winning 370 seats individually and 400 seats with allies in the upcoming elections. Modi, along with Amit Shah and JP Nadda, made astute decisions to expand alliances and secure votes through innovative political strategies.
Modi's Vision for the Future
In a vast country like India, leading a national party to victory in three consecutive terms is no small feat, especially amidst global and domestic challenges. Modi's forward-thinking strategies and new alliances played a crucial role in securing BJP's position. The success of these alliances in Modi 3.0 highlights his foresight and ability to predict and navigate future political landscapes.
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