The recent success of the G20 Summit, hosted by India, has provided the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with an opportunity to reshape the narrative ahead of the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership on the global stage, as evidenced by the G20 Summit, is being leveraged by the BJP to bolster his image as a “Vishwa Guru” (World Leader). This strategic shift aims to divert attention from domestic challenges and focus on India’s global standing.
Modi’s Vision as ‘Vishwa Guru’ Prime Minister Modi has consistently emphasized India’s role as a global leader or “Vishwa Guru.” In his G20 Summit address, he referenced India’s ancient teachings of promoting the welfare and happiness of humanity, reinforcing the nation’s historical commitment to global well-being.
Electoral Benefits of Modi-Centric Campaign Historically, elections in India have shown that the BJP benefits electorally when the conversation centers around Prime Minister Modi. The party has effectively used Modi’s leadership and achievements as a key campaign strategy. In the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Modi’s prominence in election discourse was instrumental in the BJP’s victory.
G20 Success as Election Fodder The BJP plans to prominently feature the G20 Summit’s outcomes and key takeaways in its election outreach campaigns. The party views the summit’s achievements, including consensus on contentious issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as evidence of Modi’s globally accepted leadership.
BJP’s New Narrative BJP President JP Nadda and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh have praised Prime Minister Modi for the successful G20 Summit. They highlighted India’s role as a global leader and Modi’s inclusive and people-centric approach. The party aims to showcase India’s emergence as a voice for the Global South and its ability to foster cooperation among nations for a better future.
Special Parliamentary Session The G20 Summit precedes a special session of Parliament, generating speculation about significant policy announcements. The BJP may introduce measures like “One Nation One Election,” renaming India to Bharat, and early Lok Sabha elections. Full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir and the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code are also under discussion.
Anticipation of Game-Changing Moves Some BJP leaders anticipate “big-ticket” decisions that could impact the Lok Sabha elections. Possibilities include Women’s Reservation and other transformative policies. The agenda of the special session remains undisclosed, creating intrigue in political circles.