THE RISE OF BJP

BHARATIYA JANA SANGH- ORIGIN AND HISTORY

The Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), founded in 1951, was a political party in India that laid
the foundation for what would later evolve into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Its
origin and history are rooted in the ideological vision of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, a
prominent nationalist leader, who wanted a political movement centred on Hindu
nationalism and cultural conservatism. Mookerjee's vision was motivated by his
concerns over the direction in which post-independence India was heading, particularly
in relation to national unity, the status of Jammu and Kashmir, and the dominance of the
Indian National Congress under Jawaharlal Nehru.
Origin of Bharatiya Jana Sangh

In the years following India's independence in 1947, there was a growing sense among
some sections of the population that the newly formed Congress-led government was
moving away from the cultural and political traditions of India. While the Congress
espoused secularism, socialism, and a Nehruvian vision of India, many believed that
this ideology marginalized the Hindu community and its values. Syama Prasad
Mookerjee, a former Congress minister and an influential intellectual, was particularly
disillusioned with Congress's policies. Mookerjee had a strong belief in Hindutva—the
idea of promoting a political and cultural unity based on Hindu values, as articulated by
Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. He believed that India should be a nation that embraced
its cultural heritage and unified all its communities under the identity of Hinduism.

Mookerjee was especially concerned about the special privileges granted to Jammu
and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which allowed the region to
have its own constitution and greater autonomy. This, he believed, was a challenge to
India's unity and integrity. In 1950, Mookerjee resigned from his position as the Minister
of Industry and Supply in Nehru’s government due to disagreements over these
policies.
In 1951, Mookerjee took the decisive step of founding the Bharatiya Jana Sangh with
the aim of providing an alternative to the Congress’s dominance and offering a platform
for Hindu nationalism. The BJS was a political organization that would assert the
cultural and spiritual heritage of India while promoting nationalism, self-reliance,
and an economic policy oriented towards the empowerment of the common
people. The BJS's manifesto included support for economic liberalization,
agriculture, education, and the preservation of India’s Hindu identity.

Early Struggles and Ideological Foundation

Initially, the BJS faced difficulties in gaining significant traction in the Indian political
landscape. India was predominantly under the influence of the Congress party, which
held a near-monopoly in political affairs, and the country’s policy remained shaped by
Nehruvian ideals of secularism and socialism. The BJS, however, provided an
ideological counterpoint to these ideas, emphasizing Hindu unity and the primacy of
national interests over religious and regional divides. The BJS rejected the secular
approach promoted by the Congress, arguing that India’s history, civilization, and
society were deeply rooted in Hinduism. It also emphasized social conservatism,
advocating for the protection of Hindu traditions, values, and religious practices.

The BJS found its first major electoral success in the 1967 General Elections when it
won a considerable number of seats in states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh,
and Bihar. Despite the Congress's continued dominance at the national level, the BJS
began to emerge as a potent political force in some parts of India. During this period,
the party focused on issues like nationalism, economic growth, and cultural
preservation, while also opposing the growing influence of communism and
secularism.

Mookerjee’s Death and Post Growth

A pivotal moment in the BJS’s history occurred with the sudden death of Syama Prasad
Mookerjee in 1953. His passing left a void in the party’s leadership, but it also created
an opportunity for a new generation of leaders to step forward. Among them were Atal
Bihari Vajpayee, Lal Krishna Advani, and Nanaji Deshmukh, who would play key roles
in the future of the party and the Indian right-wing political landscape. These leaders
carried forward Mookerjee’s legacy and continued to build on the ideological foundation
of the BJS.

The 1975-77 Emergency, declared by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was a turning point
for the BJS. During this period, democratic freedoms were suspended, and political
opposition was silenced. In response, the BJS, along with other opposition parties,
formed the Janata Party in 1977, which managed to defeat Indira Gandhi’s Congress in
the 1977 General Elections. The Janata Party government, however, was short-lived
and unstable, and by 1980, the BJS reasserted itself as an independent political entity
under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Transition to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)

In 1980, the Bharatiya Jana Sangh was dissolved and reconstituted as the Bharatiya
Janata Party (BJP). This marked the transition of the BJS from a fringe party to a more
nationally recognized force. The BJP adopted a broader political approach, focusing not
only on Hindu nationalism but also on issues such as economic reform, national
security, and good governance. Over the years, the BJP evolved into one of India’s
largest and most influential political parties, winning the 1996, 1998, and 1999
elections, and later forming the government under Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The legacy of the BJS, especially its emphasis on Hindutva and nationalism, continued
to shape the BJP's ideology. The rise of the BJP in the late 20th and early 21st centuries
can be seen as an apex of the ideas and aspirations set forth by the Bharatiya Jana
Sangh, which reshaped India's political landscape.
BJP- 1980 ONWARDS
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in 1980, emerged as a major political force in India,
evolving from its predecessor, the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS). The party, under the
leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Lal Krishna Advani, transitioned from a regional
and ideologically specific organization to a broad-based national party. Here is an
overview of the BJP's journey since 1980:

Foundation and Early Years (1980-1989)

In the 1980 elections, the BJP won only 2 seats, but it steadily began to build a political
base by aligning itself with issues important to Hindu voters, such as the Ram
Janmabhoomi movement in Ayodhya, and by opposing the Congress party's
secularism and socialism. During this period, the BJP largely operated as a minority
party, building support primarily in the northern and western states.

Shah Bano Case (1985)

The Shah Bano Case was a landmark legal case in India that had significant political
and social implications, particularly in relation to Muslim personal law and the rights of
Muslim women. The case, and the controversy surrounding it, had a major impact on
the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which capitalized on the issue to gain
political momentum, especially among Hindu voters.
Background of the Shah Bano Case

In 1978, Shah Bano, a 62-year-old Muslim woman, was divorced by her husband,
Mohammad Ahmed Khan, after 43 years of marriage. Khan, a lawyer, did not provide her
with maintenance after the divorce, which led Shah Bano to file a petition for
maintenance under Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). The Section
requires a husband to provide financial support to his wife if she is unable to maintain
herself, regardless of their religion.

The case eventually went to the Supreme Court of India, which in 1985, ruled in favour
of Shah Bano. The Court ordered that her husband must provide her with maintenance
under Section 125, stating that the Muslim personal law (which allowed a divorced
woman to receive maintenance only for a limited period) could not override the civil law
regarding maintenance for women.
Political and Social Reactions

The Shah Bano ruling ignited a massive controversy in India, particularly within the
Muslim community. Many Muslim clerics and political leaders, particularly from the
Indian National Congress (INC), viewed the ruling as an interference in Muslim personal
law and a violation of the rights of Muslims to manage their own religious affairs. To
appease Muslim sentiment and maintain political support from the community, the
Congress-led government, under Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, enacted the Muslim
Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986. This law effectively overturned the
Supreme Court's decision, limiting the maintenance that a divorced Muslim woman
could claim to the period of iddat (a waiting period after divorce), which is generally
three months.
BJP's Role and Response to the Shah Bano Case

BJP as a political force strongly opposed the Muslim Women Act, viewing it as an
attempt by the Congress to appease a particular religious community at the expense of
gender justice. The BJP, which was committed to the protection of Hindu values and
social conservatism, saw the Shah Bano case as a crucial issue to rally support from
Hindu voters.

The BJP and other right-wing Hindu organizations criticized the Congress for appeasing
the Muslim community by overturning the Supreme Court’s verdict. They argued that the
government’s move undermined the principle of gender equality and was politically
motivated to secure Muslim votes. This situation became an important turning point for
the BJP, as the party used the issue of Muslim appeasement to build a broader narrative
of Hindu empowerment and nationalism.
The BJP’s strong stand on the Shah Bano case contributed to its political rise in the late
1980s, especially as the party became increasingly vocal on issues related to Hindu
identity and the protection of Hindu rights. The party began to gain popularity by
presenting itself as a defender of Hindu values, using issues like the Ram Mandir
movement and Muslim appeasement as platforms to galvanize support, particularly
among the Hindu middle class.

Impact on BJP's Political Strategy

The Shah Bano case and the Congress government’s decision to reverse the Supreme
Court verdict marked a turning point for the BJP. The BJP capitalized on the
disillusionment among Hindu voters, portraying the Congress as being soft on issues
concerning the rights of Hindu women while prioritizing the demands of Muslim voters.
This played into the BJP’s broader narrative of Hindutva (Hindu nationalism), which
emphasized the need for policies that promoted Hindu cultural identity and social
justice.

The issue also strengthened the BJP’s growing alliance with Hindu nationalist groups,
including the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP),
who advocated for a strong Hindu identity in India. The BJP’s opposition to the Shah
Bano ruling was part of its larger political strategy to promote itself as the party that
stood for Hindu concerns, helping it make inroads into the wider political discourse of
India during the 1980s and early 1990s.

Legacy and Long-term Impact

The Shah Bano case and its aftermath helped to solidify the BJP, and it marked the
beginning of a polarizing period in Indian politics, where religious identity became a key
factor in electoral politics. The party's stance on the issue contributed to its rise in the
1990s, as it gained increasing support from Hindu voters frustrated with what they saw
as the Congress party’s policy of minority appeasement.

The Shah Bano case also played a role in the broader discourse on women’s rights and
religious personal laws in India. While the case highlighted the tension between
religious personal laws and secular legal principles, it also brought attention to the
need for reform in Muslim personal law, especially concerning issues like divorce,
maintenance, and inheritance.
In conclusion, the Shah Bano case not only had significant implications for Muslim
women’s rights but also played a key role in shaping the political trajectory of the
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP's strong stand against the Muslim Women
(Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act and its advocacy for gender equality in the face of
religious appeasement allowed the party to carve out a distinct political identity centred
on Hindu nationalism, which became a central theme of its politics in the years to
come.

The Ram Mandir Movement in Ayodhya (1989-1992)

The period from 1989 to 1992 marked a pivotal phase for the BJP. Under the leadership
of Lal Krishna Advani, the party adopted the Ram Mandir (Temple) movement as its
central political agenda. Advani's rath yatra (chariot procession) in 1990, aimed at
gathering support for the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, transformed the BJP
into a nationwide political force. The issue resonated with millions of Hindus who felt
that the Babri Masjid had been built on the site of an ancient Hindu temple, and it
became a rallying cry for the BJP.

In the 1989 general elections, the BJP's presence was strengthened, winning 85 seats,
up from only 2 in 1984. This was the beginning of its ascent as a significant political
player. However, the 1992 demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, conducted by
Hindu activists, led to widespread violence and controversy. While the event polarized
Indian politics, it also provided the BJP with a solid base of support among Hindu voters,
which contributed to its political growth.
Rise to Power and the NDA Era (1996-2004)

By the 1996 elections, the BJP had emerged as the principal opposition to the Congress
party. It secured 161 seats, making it the largest party in the Lok Sabha (lower house of
Parliament). However, the party was unable to form a stable government, and the
United Front coalition led by H.D. Deve Gowda took power.

In 1998, the BJP, now in alliance with other regional parties in the National Democratic
Alliance (NDA), led by Vajpayee, came to power. Vajpayee became the Prime Minister of
India. The BJP-led government embarked on a series of significant policy initiatives,
including the Pokhran nuclear tests (1998), which showcased India's nuclear
capabilities and marked the country as a major global power.
The 1999 general elections resulted in a stronger mandate for the NDA, and the BJP-led
government returned to power with a clear majority. Under Vajpayee’s leadership, India
saw economic reforms, infrastructure growth, and efforts to improve relations with
Pakistan, including the Kargil War in 1999, which solidified Vajpayee's image as a strong
leader.

However, despite its successes, the NDA coalition faced internal challenges, including
disagreements with allies, leading to its eventual collapse in 2004.
The 2004 Setback and Revival (2004-2014)

The 2004 general elections marked a setback for the BJP, as it unexpectedly lost to the
Indian National Congress and its allies, led by Sonia Gandhi. The Congress party
formed the government with Manmohan Singh as Prime Minister, and the BJP, led by
Vajpayee, was ousted from power after a decade-long rule.

However, the defeat in 2004 did not mark the end of the BJP. The party reorganized itself
and focused on internal renewal. The leadership of Narendra Modi, who became Chief
Minister of Gujarat in 2001, began to rise. Modi's governance in Gujarat, which
emphasized development, economic growth, and Hindu identity, started gaining
attention nationwide.

Modi Era and the 2014 Surge

The 2014 general elections were a turning point for the BJP, marking its return to power
under the dynamic leadership of Narendra Modi. Modi’s campaign focused on
development, economic reforms, and national security, alongside promoting Hindu
nationalism and cultural pride. The BJP, riding on a wave of popularity and
dissatisfaction with the Congress-led UPA government, won 282 seats in the Lok
Sabha, securing a majority on its own. This was the first time since 1984 that a single
party had achieved such a clear mandate.

Modi’s government introduced a series of ambitious initiatives, including Make in India,

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Digital India, and a Goods and Services Tax (GST) aimed at
streamlining the economy. The government also took a strong stance on national
security, demonstrated by the surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (2016)
and the Balakot airstrike (2019).

2019 Victory and Continued Dominance

In the 2019 general elections, the BJP achieved an even stronger performance, winning
303 seats in the Lok Sabha, and securing a second consecutive term for Narendra Modi
as Prime Minister. The victory was attributed to Modi’s leadership, his focus on
nationalism, and the party's appeal to Hindu voters across the country.

The second term of Modi's government has focused on economic reforms, such as the
demonetization of high-value currency notes (2016) and the controversial Citizenship
Amendment Act (CAA). The BJP's policies have sometimes faced criticism, especially
on issues related to secularism, minority rights, and its handling of the COVID-19
pandemic.

AGENDAS ON HINDUTVA
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), rooted in the ideology of Hindutva, has consistently
advocated for policies and actions that promote a vision of India centred on Hindu
nationalism. Hindutva, as defined by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, is the belief that
India is fundamentally a Hindu nation, where Hindu culture, traditions, and values
should shape its political and social life. The BJP, as the political arm of the Rashtriya
Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has pursued a range of agendas influenced by this
ideology since its formation. Here are 9 key Hindutva agendas promoted by the BJP:

1. Promotion of Hindu Cultural Identity

Hindutva emphasizes the promotion and protection of Hindu culture, traditions, and
values as the core of Indian identity. The BJP has consistently pushed for policies that
strengthen Hindu unity and ensure the preservation of Hindu rituals, festivals, and
practices. The BJP has encouraged a greater emphasis on Hindu symbols and icons in
public spaces, including the celebration of Hindu festivals like Diwali, Holi, and
Navratri on a national level.

2. Ram Mandir and the Ram Janmabhoomi Movement

One of the most iconic and polarizing agendas of the BJP has been its long-standing
advocacy for the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The party has supported
the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, which calls for the building of a temple at the site
believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram.
This movement has been a central issue for the BJP, with Lal Krishna Advani’s rath
yatra (chariot procession) in the early 1990s serving as a key moment in the party’s rise
to national prominence. The eventual demolition of the Babri Masjid (1992) was linked
to this cause and significantly impacted the BJP’s political fortunes, bringing it closer to
Hindu voters.

3. Uniform Civil Code (UCC)

The Uniform Civil Code is another significant part of the BJP’s Hindutva agenda. The
party has called for a uniform set of laws to govern marriage, inheritance, and other
family-related matters across all communities, irrespective of religion. This is seen as a
step toward creating national cohesion and challenging what the BJP views as the
appeasement of Muslim personal law.

The BJP believes that the UCC will promote gender equality, ensuring that women,
especially in religious communities that follow separate personal laws (such as
Muslims and Christians), are not discriminated against.

4. Opposition to Religious Conversion

The BJP has voiced strong opposition to religious conversions, particularly those done
under coercion or allurement. Hindutva proponents often argue that forced or
incentivized conversions of Hindus to other religions, particularly Islam and Christianity,
threaten India’s Hindu identity.

BJP governments in some states, like Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, have passed
laws against love jihad (a term used by some Hindu right-wing groups to describe
interfaith marriages), claiming that Muslim men are covertly converting Hindu women to
Islam.

5. Emphasis on Hindu Nationalism and National Unity

The BJP promotes Hindu nationalism as the core of its national identity, asserting that
India’s identity is inseparable from its Hindu culture and traditions. This includes the
idea that Muslims, Christians, and other communities should integrate into the
dominant Hindu culture if they wish to be considered part of the Indian mainstream.

The BJP has also worked to consolidate the Hindu vote by positioning itself as the
champion of Hindu interests, while accusing other political parties, particularly the
Indian National Congress, of minority appeasement.

6. Strengthening of Nationalism and Security

The BJP has consistently emphasized national security and the importance of a strong
military to protect India’s interests, often invoking Hindu imagery and symbolism in
relation to national defence. The BJP has portrayed itself as the party that will stand firm
on national security, taking a strong stance against terrorism and external threats.

The Surgical Strikes (2016) and the Balakot airstrike (2019), carried out by the BJP
government, were framed as decisive actions to defend India against terrorism, which
played into the broader narrative of Hindu nationalism and assertiveness.

7. Education and History Revisionism

The BJP, through its affiliation with the RSS and other Hindu organizations, advocates for
reforms in education that align with Hindutva principles. The party has pushed for
revising textbooks to highlight Hindu contributions to Indian culture and history,
emphasizing the role of ancient Indian civilization, Hindu kings, and saints.

The BJP has also sought to challenge historical narratives that it believes have sidelined
Hindu contributions and highlighted the colonial and Muslim periods in a negative
light. This includes the portrayal of figures like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Swami
Vivekananda, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as central to India’s freedom struggle
and cultural identity.

8. Anti-Conversion Laws and Ghar Wapsi

The BJP and its ideological affiliates like the RSS have promoted the Ghar Wapsi
(homecoming) program, which encourages Hindus who have converted to other
religions, particularly Islam and Christianity, to return to their Hindu roots. This is part
of a broader agenda to strengthen the Hindu community by addressing what the BJP
considers the erosion of Hindu identity due to religious conversions.

Some BJP-led state governments have passed laws criminalizing forced religious
conversions, which the party views as essential for maintaining the purity of Hindu
culture.

9. Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC)

The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), passed in 2019, has been a controversial
component of the BJP’s Hindutva agenda. The law provides a pathway to citizenship for
non-Muslim religious minorities (Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and
Christians) from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh who faced religious
persecution. The BJP argued that the law was meant to protect religious minorities, but
critics contended that it discriminates against Muslims and undermines India’s secular
constitution.

The National Register of Citizens (NRC), proposed for implementation in Assam, also
fits within the broader Hindutva agenda. While it is aimed at identifying illegal
immigrants, critics argue that it could disproportionately affect Muslims and lead to
their exclusion from the Indian population registry.

ELECTIONS- WINS AND LEADERS

Here is a year-wise summary of BJP's electoral victories along with their leaders:

1996: General Election (Lok Sabha):

Seats won: 161 out of 545

Leader: Atal Bihari Vajpayee

The BJP emerged as the largest party but fell short of a majority. Vajpayee became the
Prime Minister, but the government lasted only 13 days.

1998: General Election (Lok Sabha):

Seats won: 182 out of 545

Leader: Atal Bihari Vajpayee

The BJP formed a coalition government (NDA), and Vajpayee became the Prime Minister
again, this time for a full term.

1999: General Election (Lok Sabha):

Seats won: 182 out of 545

Leader: Atal Bihari Vajpayee

BJP retained power through the NDA coalition. Vajpayee continued as Prime Minister
until 2004.
2004: General Election (Lok Sabha):

Seats won: 138 out of 545

Leader: Atal Bihari Vajpayee

Despite being in power, the BJP lost to the Congress-led UPA, and Vajpayee lost the
election. The UPA formed the government.

2009: General Election (Lok Sabha):

Seats won: 116 out of 545

Leader: Lal Krishna Advani

The BJP performed poorly, and the UPA secured a second term. Advani was the Prime
Ministerial candidate but could not win.

2014: General Election (Lok Sabha):

Seats won: 282 out of 545

Leader: Narendra Modi

The BJP, led by Narendra Modi, won a landslide victory with an absolute majority. Modi
became the Prime Minister, marking a historic win for the BJP.
2019: General Election (Lok Sabha):

Seats won: 303 out of 545

Leader: Narendra Modi

The BJP secured a bigger victory in 2019, with Modi continuing as Prime Minister for a
second consecutive term.

State Elections (Key victories):

2003:

States won: Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan

Leaders: Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Madhya Pradesh), Vasundhara Raje (Rajasthan),
Raman Singh (Chhattisgarh)

2014:

States won: Maharashtra, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand

Leaders: Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra), Manohar Lal Khattar (Haryana)

2017:

States won: Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa, Manipur

Leaders: Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh), Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand),
Manohar Parrikar (Goa)

2019:
States won: Maharashtra, Haryana

Leaders: Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra), Manohar Lal Khattar (Haryana)

2021:

States won: Assam, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu

Leaders: Himanta Biswa Sarma (Assam), Subrata Mukherjee (West Bengal), Pushkar
Singh Dhami (Uttarakhand)

NDA AND BJP (DETAILED EXPLANATION )

The BJP and NDA have a deep and intertwined relationship, especially in the context of
Indian politics. Here's an overview of their relationship, agendas, and key elements:

1. BJP and NDA: The Relationship

• Formation of NDA:
The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was formed in 1998 under the
leadership of the BJP. It was a coalition of regional and national parties that
aimed to challenge the dominance of the Congress-led United Progressive
Alliance (UPA). The NDA is led by the BJP, which is usually the largest party in the
alliance, but the coalition includes several other regional parties.

• NDA's Leadership:
The NDA has been largely led by the BJP since its formation. Atal Bihari
Vajpayee, the then leader of BJP, became the Prime Minister in 1998 under the
NDA banner. Later, Narendra Modi became the leader of the NDA during the
2014 and 2019 elections, forming the government after BJP's victories.

• Purpose of NDA:
The NDA serves as a platform for BJP to create a wider coalition of regional
parties to gain majority support for general elections. The goal is to unite various
parties that may not agree on all issues but are willing to cooperate for national
governance. The NDA has allowed the BJP to form stable governments,
especially when it hasn't won an outright majority on its own.
2. Key Principles of NDA (National Democratic Alliance)

• Cooperative Federalism:
The NDA, led by the BJP, promotes cooperative federalism in India. This involves
working closely with state governments to implement policies and ensure that
the country's development is inclusive, with attention to both urban and rural
needs.
 • Secularism (with a distinct Hindutva approach):
The BJP, through its leadership in NDA, advocates for secularism but
emphasizes the importance of Hindutva (cultural nationalism). The party seeks
to uphold the rights of all communities but also aims to promote a Hindu-
centric cultural identity for India. This dual approach is key to its appeal, even
though it is a subject of political debate.

• Economic Reforms:
A central agenda of the NDA is economic growth through liberalization,
privatization, and globalization. The BJP-led government has focused on
market-driven reforms, deregulation, and privatization. For example, Goods
and Services Tax (GST) and make in India were major economic initiatives
introduced during NDA rule.

• National Security and Defence:

The NDA, especially under Narendra Modi, has prioritized national security and
defence modernization. This includes stronger military presence, counter-
terrorism measures, and enhanced defence infrastructure. Examples include
the surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in 2016 and the airstrike in
Balakot in 2019.

• Social Welfare Programs:

The NDA has launched several welfare programs aimed at inclusive
development. Key schemes include:

o Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (financial inclusion)

o Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (cleanliness campaign)

o Ayushman Bharat (healthcare initiative)

o Ujjwala Yojana (providing LPG to poor households)

• Cultural Nationalism and Hindu Identity:

The BJP and its allies in the NDA are often associated with the promotion of
Hindu culture and traditions. The NDA's agenda includes the promotion of
Hindu temples and support for Hindu religious institutions. The idea of
Hindutva, often associated with the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh), is
central to BJP's policies.

3. BJP's Role in NDA

• The Dominant Party:
The BJP is the largest and most dominant party in the NDA. It forms the core
leadership of the alliance and provides the Prime Ministerial candidate. The
BJP's policies, especially those under Narendra Modi, shape the direction of the
NDA's governance.
 • Coalition Politics:
While the BJP is the leader of the NDA, the coalition consists of several regional
parties with their own agendas. The BJP has to balance its national agenda with
the demands and priorities of its regional allies. For instance, parties like Shiv
Sena (until 2019), Janata Dal (United), Akali Dal, and others have had
significant influence on the NDA’s policies, especially in states where they hold
power.
4. NDA's Key Allies and Parties

• Shiv Sena:
A right-wing party from Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena was a key ally of the BJP until
they split in 2019 over the formation of the Maharashtra government. They share
a common ideology but often have differences on certain state-specific issues.

• Janata Dal (United):

The JD(U), led by Nitish Kumar, is another important ally of the BJP in Bihar.
While JD(U) is considered a center-left party, they have shared power with the
BJP in Bihar and have aligned on several national issues.

• Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD):

The SAD is a regional party in Punjab, representing the Sikh community, and was
a long-time ally of the BJP in Punjab, though they parted ways in 2020 over issues
related to agricultural reforms.

• AIADMK:
The All-India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), a significant party
in Tamil Nadu, was an ally of the BJP-led NDA until recent years.
• Apna Dal:
An ally from Uttar Pradesh, Apna Dal represents the OBC community and has
been a consistent partner of the BJP in the state's politics.

5. Key Agendas of the NDA Government under BJP's Leadership

• Economic Growth and Reforms:

The Modi-led NDA government focuses on economic growth through reforms
such as GST implementation, Make in India, Digital India, Start-Up India, and
Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

• National Security:
The NDA government under the BJP has prioritized national defense and
security, taking strong action on terrorism (e.g., surgical strikes and Balakot
airstrike) and enhancing the military.

• Inclusive Development:
Under Modi, the BJP's agenda has focused on ensuring benefits for the poor
and marginalized sections, through schemes like Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala
 Yojana (for LPG access), Ayushman Bharat (health insurance), and PM-Kisan
(farmers' income support).

• Cultural Agenda:
Promoting Hindu nationalism, the revival of ancient Indian cultural traditions,
and a focus on Hindu temples have been key aspects of BJP's governance. The
Ram Mandir issue, culminating in the construction of the Ram Mandir in
Ayodhya, is a prominent example of this agenda.
• Social Reforms:
The NDA government has focused on policies like abolishing Triple Talaq,
promoting women’s empowerment, and enacting laws on safety and
reservation for women.
6. Challenges and Criticisms of the NDA under BJP

• Coalition Management:
The BJP, as the leader of the NDA, faces challenges in managing its regional
allies. Conflicts with allies over issues like agriculture reforms or state-specific
policies (e.g., in Maharashtra and Punjab) have led to shifts in alliance dynamics.

• Economic and Social Impact:

Critics argue that some of the BJP’s policies, like demonetization (2016) and the
GST implementation, were poorly executed, causing economic hardship,
especially for small businesses. Some social policies have also led to concerns
about increased religious polarization.

• Secularism and Democracy:

The BJP’s promotion of Hindutva has faced strong opposition from secular and
left-wing political forces, with accusations that the party is undermining the
secular fabric of India.

NDA AND BJP TERMS- 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

The NDA and BJP have had a significant relationship in Indian politics since the
formation of the NDA in 1998. Over the years, the BJP has led the NDA in several terms
at the center (as the ruling coalition in the Indian government). Here's a detailed
breakdown of each term, including the key milestones, leaders, and political context:
1. NDA and BJP - Term 1 (1998–2004)

• General Elections: 1998, 1999

• Prime Minister: Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BJP)

• Seats in 1998: BJP won 182 out of 545 seats in the Lok Sabha. The NDA as a
whole won more than 300 seats, but the BJP needed to rely on allies to form a
government.
 • Key Parties in NDA: BJP, Shiv Sena, Samata Party, Janata Dal (United), Akali
Dal, Indian National Lok Dal, etc.

• Formation: The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was formed in 1998 by the
BJP, aiming to bring together a coalition of various regional and national parties,
with BJP as the dominant force.

• Notable Events:

o Kargil War (1999): India's victory in the Kargil conflict boosted the BJP’s
national security credentials.

o Nuclear Tests (1998): India conducted nuclear tests in May 1998 under
Vajpayee's leadership, positioning India as a global nuclear power.

o Golden Quadrilateral Project: A major infrastructure initiative to connect

India's four major cities.

• Defeat in 2004: Despite strong leadership and economic growth, the NDA lost
the 2004 general elections, with Congress-led UPA emerging as the winner.

2. NDA and BJP - Term 2 (2004–2009)

• General Elections: 2004

• Prime Minister: Atal Bihari Vajpayee (until May 2004)

• Seats in 2004: BJP won 138 out of 545 seats. The NDA as a whole had a
significant presence, but not enough to secure a majority.

• Outcome: The Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA), under Sonia

Gandhi and later Manmohan Singh, won the 2004 elections. The BJP and NDA
were relegated to the opposition.
• Post-election: Atal Bihari Vajpayee resigned as Prime Minister, and the BJP
entered the opposition.

• Key Issues:

o Economic Growth: Despite strong economic reforms and growth during

Vajpayee’s tenure, the BJP faced challenges related to issues of
governance and discontent among rural voters.

o The Ram Mandir Issue: The BJP continued its association with the
Hindutva agenda and the Ram Mandir issue, which had gained
prominence over the years.
o Agricultural Crisis: Rural distress and unemployment were significant
issues that worked against the BJP-led NDA.
3. NDA and BJP - Term 3 (2014–2019)

• General Elections: 2014, 2019

• Prime Minister: Narendra Modi (BJP)

• Seats in 2014: BJP won 282 out of 545 seats (a clear majority), and NDA won
over 330 seats. This marked the first time that the BJP had won an absolute
majority in the Lok Sabha.

• Formation: The BJP won a landslide victory in the 2014 elections, with
Narendra Modi emerging as the Prime Minister. Modi's election campaign
focused on economic reforms, development, national security, and anti-
corruption.

• Key Parties in NDA: BJP, Shiv Sena, Janata Dal (United) (until 2017), Akali Dal,
AIADMK, Apna Dal, Lok Janshakti Party, etc.

• Major Achievements:

o Economic Reforms: Introduction of GST (Goods and Services Tax) in

2017, Make in India, Digital India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-
Reliant India).

o Demonetization (2016): A controversial move that aimed to curb black

money and counterfeit currency. While it faced criticism, it solidified
Modi's image as a decisive leader.
o Surgical Strikes and Balakot Airstrike: The NDA government led by Modi
took a tough stance on national security, especially after the Pulwama
attack (2019), with the Balakot airstrike as a significant military
response.
o PM-Kisan Scheme: Financial assistance to farmers, Ayushman Bharat
(healthcare), and Ujjwala Yojana (providing free LPG connections to rural
women) were key welfare measures.

• 2019 Elections:

o Seats in 2019: BJP won 303 out of 545 seats, marking a stronger victory
than in 2014, with the NDA securing 353 seats.

o Continuation of Modi: Narendra Modi continued as Prime Minister for a

second term.

o Key Issues in 2019:

▪ Focus on national security, Hindutva agenda, economic
reforms, and anti-corruption.

▪ The BJP's stronghold in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, and

Northeast India were instrumental in its success.
4. NDA and BJP - Term 4 (2019–2024)

• General Elections: 2019

• Prime Minister: Narendra Modi (BJP)

• Seats in 2019: BJP won 303 out of 545 seats. The NDA, under Modi’s leadership,
secured 353 seats, further strengthening their position in the Indian political
landscape.

• Major Developments:
o Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and NRC: These controversial
policies sparked nationwide protests, particularly in states like West
Bengal and Kerala.

o Revocation of Article 370: The government scrapped Article 370 of the

Constitution, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.
This was a major step in fulfilling the BJP's long-standing agenda of
integrating Jammu and Kashmir fully with India.

o Economic Challenges: The Indian economy faced challenges such as

slowing growth and unemployment in the later part of the term,
culminating in the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

o COVID-19 Response: The NDA government led by Modi implemented a

nationwide lockdown and launched vaccination drives. The economic
recovery and management of the pandemic became key issues in the
later part of the tenure.

5. NDA and BJP - Term 5 (2024–Present)

• General Elections: 2024 (Expected)

• Prime Minister: Narendra Modi (BJP)

• Current Status: The 2024 general elections are yet to be held, but the BJP
under Narendra Modi is expected to contest for a third term, largely riding on
issues such as national security, economic recovery post-COVID, and social
welfare schemes like PM-Kisan and Ayushman Bharat.

• Challenges:

o Economic Recovery: While India is on a recovery path post-COVID, the

economy faces challenges such as unemployment, inflation, and rural
distress.

o Farmers' Protests: The government has faced backlash from farmers'

unions over agriculture laws.
 o Internal NDA Relations: Managing coalition partners like JD(U),
Shiromani Akali Dal, Shiv Sena (split), and others remains a challenge,
with occasional political shifts within states.
• Key Themes for 2024 Elections:

o BJP's Hindutva Agenda: Continuation of policies promoting Hindu

cultural nationalism.

o Economic Development: Focusing on job creation, infrastructure, and

self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).

o National Security and Foreign Policy: Sticking to tough stances on

national security and expanding India's international footprint, especially
in the Indo-Pacific region.

CONCLUSION-
The rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India is a significant political phenomenon
that has reshaped the country's political landscape over the last few decades. From its
early days as a smaller, marginal party to its status as the dominant force in Indian
politics, the BJP's ascent can be attributed to a combination of factors.

First, the party's ability to build a broad and diverse electoral coalition, uniting various
sections of society, including urban middle-class voters, rural communities, and a
strong base among the Hindu majority, has been pivotal. The BJP's ideological
foundation, rooted in Hindu nationalism and its connection to the Rashtriya
Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has resonated with many Indians seeking a strong,
assertive national identity.
Second, the party's leadership under figures like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra
Modi has played a crucial role. Modi's charismatic leadership, along with a focus on
economic reforms, national security, and development, has helped the BJP maintain a
dominant position in Indian politics. The party's ability to effectively use social media
and modern communication techniques to reach voters has also been a key factor in its
success.

Moreover, the BJP is benefited from the fragmentation of the opposition, which has
often struggled to stay unite. The party's electoral victories, particularly in 2014 and
2019, reflected a shift towards a more centralized and decisive political style, which
appealed to voters seeking stability and strong governance.

In conclusion, the rise of the BJP is a complex process shaped by ideological, political,
and social factors. Its continued success will depend on its ability to maintain its broad
electoral base while navigating the challenges of governance, maintaining inclusivity,
and addressing the evolving aspirations of India's diverse population.

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