As the campaigning for the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections culminates, Varanasi, the constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emerges as the epicenter of political activity. Known as the longest-living city, Varanasi symbolizes the formidable election machinery of the BJP.
Despite the candidacy of Ajay Rai from the Opposition INDI alliance, the overwhelming public support for PM Modi in Varanasi is evident. During a recent three-day visit to the city, it was clear that Modi’s popularity has soared since the previous elections in 2014 and 2019. From boatmen and shop owners to rickshaw pullers and taxi drivers, residents hold PM Modi in high regard, crediting him for the transformation of Varanasi.
Key infrastructural developments such as the Kashi Vishwanath corridor, NaMo Ghat, and improved road and rail networks have significantly enhanced the city’s landscape. The efforts to clean and modernize Varanasi have resonated deeply with its citizens.
The BJP’s meticulous campaign efforts in Poorvanchal, with Varanasi at the core, underscore the party’s determination. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s engagement with the Tamil Sangh community, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s outreach to local traders, and BJP President J.P. Nadda’s rallies all signify a comprehensive strategy to secure votes.
Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani has been actively mobilizing support among women voters, while Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and his Cabinet members shuttle between Varanasi and Gorakhpur, emphasizing the party’s commitment. Former Mumbai Police Commissioner Satyapal Singh’s involvement further highlights the BJP’s voter engagement strategy.
Home Minister Amit Shah, the central figure in orchestrating the BJP’s campaign, has been tireless in his efforts. His extensive travel and outreach programs, including a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, exemplify his dedication to ensuring a BJP victory.
The BJP leadership’s unwavering focus and ground-level efforts in Varanasi and Poorvanchal suggest a confident outlook for the 2024 elections. The anticipation is that PM Modi will not only secure a decisive victory in Varanasi but also that the BJP will perform exceptionally well across Uttar Pradesh and other key states.
The party aims to surpass its previous tally of 303 seats in 2019, targeting around 335 seats, with significant gains expected in West Bengal, Odisha, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. Despite potential losses in some regions, the BJP is optimistic about its overall performance.
In Punjab, the BJP is contesting independently and hopes to consolidate the minority Hindu vote, potentially adding seats in the state. The party’s confidence is bolstered by the widespread national pride and trust in PM Modi, as reflected in social media trends and public sentiment.
The meticulous planning, strategic outreach, and unwavering public support for PM Modi position the BJP strongly as the nation approaches the 2024 elections.
