Will a BJP retain its hold in Gujarat after twenty-seven years of anti-incumbency, or an Arvind Kejriwal dent its prospects, narrowing down its numbers and margins? Before reaching any conclusion, reading leaders’ signs and minds is crucial, with PM Modi visiting every hook and corner of his home state, from inaugurating projects to greeting people on Navratra, interpreting the pulse and opinions of the electorate. Cashing on his popularity amongst his state people, Modi is looking to cross the finish line comfortably and convincingly.
Kejriwal is assuring the urban and semi-urban of free electricity, better healthcare etc., eating into the constituencies traditionally aligned with the BJP, tearing into the Congress, which may split the opposition votes. Interestingly, the Congress spearheading the Bharat Jodo Campaign isn’t opening its cards, losing the plot and narrative against the loopholes and lapses of the BJP government in Gujarat restraining and refraining from pressing charges against the incumbent. Kejriwal, who till now is a marginal entity, may reap some dividends.
Still, for the confusion and chaos in voters’ minds, he may not be the best bet to opt for given the state’s demography tilted towards private businesses and corporate houses minus a welfare model catering to everyone. Sops and freebies can never be alternatives to sound schemes and policies with a motive to bring deprived classes and communities to a level playing field, underlining an important message for opposition parties wanting to become alternatives to Modi s BJP in Gujarat. As simple as that