Not just ‘Congress-mukt’ Bharat, how state poll results fulfill another BJP objective
The BJP’s recent victories in West Bengal, Maharashtra, and other states have weakened major regional parties like the TMC, DMK, and RJD, advancing its goal of reducing their influence. The party frames regional forces as divisive, prioritizing local interests over national unity, while opposition parties face declining representation in Parliament and governance challenges.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has made significant progress in diminishing the influence of regional parties across India, following electoral defeats for the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal and the DMK in Tamil Nadu. The TMC’s collapse and the DMK’s weakened position mark a broader trend, with parties like the RJD in Bihar, BRS in Telangana, and the JD(U) now reliant on BJP support. In Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena and NCP have been marginalized, while the BSP and Samajwadi Party (SP) struggle to regain momentum. The BJP’s strategy targets regional parties as promoters of ‘divisive regionalism,’ arguing they prioritize caste-based and dynastic politics over national unity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly criticized parties like the RJD, DMK, SP, and BRS, framing the BJP as the only party focused on national welfare. The party’s dominance has reshaped state politics, with smaller parties like the TDP aligning with the NDA and others, such as the National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir, avoiding confrontation with the Centre. With state election results influencing Rajya Sabha representation, the Left, DMK, and TMC are losing parliamentary influence. Opposition parties, including Congress allies, have accused the BJP-led government of centralizing power through mechanisms like the Finance Commission, GST framework, and governor appointments. Southern states ruled by regional parties have also opposed proposed delimitation exercises, fearing further dilution of their political influence. During the Budget Session, regional parties and Congress united to move a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, alleging partisanship. The Opposition has also sought the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, citing misconduct. As the BJP consolidates power, regional parties face an uphill battle to recover, with internal divisions and electoral setbacks weakening their resistance to the party’s centralized agenda.
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