BENGALURU:With Lok Sabha elections nearing, Congress has intensified its campaign against alleged financial injustice meted out by the central govt, making the theme the cornerstone of their election strategy with the hope that it will galvanise support from voters peeved with the northsouth disparity.
At the heart of Congress’ efforts lies a steadfast commitment to addressing what they view as neglect from the central govt, especially concerning Karnataka’s interests.
Recent events, including a mass protest in New Delhi led by chief minister Siddaramaiah and the passage of a resolution in the assembly condemning alleged financial injustices, have only stoked flames.
Siddaramaiah has been vocal in his criticism of the BJP led Union govt, accusing it of “discrimination” against Karnataka. His relentless campaign has become a rallying cry for Congress.
But the question is whether it will translate into electoral gains. Political analysts like MN Patil are bullish about Congress’ prospects, noting a shift in sentiment among voters.
He feels strategic efforts to highlight the Narendra Modi govt’s neglect of the state’s interests could resonate strongly with voters, especially in a region where disparities in fund allocation are keenly felt.
Yet, others believe BJP holds all the aces. Brijesh Kalappa, senior AAP function- ary and legal expert, said with the Ram Mandir issue taking centre stage, Congress faces an uphill battle to sway voter sentiment in their favour.
“In 2019, the electorate was substantially influenced by the Pulwama attacks and the Balakot response and BJP won 25 out of the 28 parliamentary seats,” Kalappa said. “Now, the only issue ruling hearts of people is the opening of the Ram Mandir. However, Indians vote based on forthcoming promises, not on fulfilled ones.”
Psephologist Sanseep Shastri says success for Congress lies in crafting a narrative that resonates with vot- ers and positions the party as champions of Karnataka’s interests.
“Congress has a clear strategy of challenging BJP by making it a state vs. centre issue,” Shastri said. “It has been tried in the past [by Ramakrishna Hegde] and had limited success. For it to work, it must be part of a larger strategy, including building a popular perception of support for its five guarantees.”
But BJP’s deputy opposition leader, Arvind Bellad, shrugged off Congress’ tactics. He says people are impressed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his fulfilment of building the Ram Mandir, so they have already made up their minds to vote for the saffron party.
As for Congress’ strategy, Bellad said “Voters know their finances and are aware that Congress’ accusations against the Centre are an attempt to deflect attention from its own shortcomings, especially stagnation in development projects and increasing corruption.”
At the heart of Congress’ efforts lies a steadfast commitment to addressing what they view as neglect from the central govt, especially concerning Karnataka’s interests.
Recent events, including a mass protest in New Delhi led by chief minister Siddaramaiah and the passage of a resolution in the assembly condemning alleged financial injustices, have only stoked flames.
Siddaramaiah has been vocal in his criticism of the BJP led Union govt, accusing it of “discrimination” against Karnataka. His relentless campaign has become a rallying cry for Congress.
But the question is whether it will translate into electoral gains. Political analysts like MN Patil are bullish about Congress’ prospects, noting a shift in sentiment among voters.
He feels strategic efforts to highlight the Narendra Modi govt’s neglect of the state’s interests could resonate strongly with voters, especially in a region where disparities in fund allocation are keenly felt.
Yet, others believe BJP holds all the aces. Brijesh Kalappa, senior AAP function- ary and legal expert, said with the Ram Mandir issue taking centre stage, Congress faces an uphill battle to sway voter sentiment in their favour.
“In 2019, the electorate was substantially influenced by the Pulwama attacks and the Balakot response and BJP won 25 out of the 28 parliamentary seats,” Kalappa said. “Now, the only issue ruling hearts of people is the opening of the Ram Mandir. However, Indians vote based on forthcoming promises, not on fulfilled ones.”
Psephologist Sanseep Shastri says success for Congress lies in crafting a narrative that resonates with vot- ers and positions the party as champions of Karnataka’s interests.
“Congress has a clear strategy of challenging BJP by making it a state vs. centre issue,” Shastri said. “It has been tried in the past [by Ramakrishna Hegde] and had limited success. For it to work, it must be part of a larger strategy, including building a popular perception of support for its five guarantees.”
But BJP’s deputy opposition leader, Arvind Bellad, shrugged off Congress’ tactics. He says people are impressed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his fulfilment of building the Ram Mandir, so they have already made up their minds to vote for the saffron party.
As for Congress’ strategy, Bellad said “Voters know their finances and are aware that Congress’ accusations against the Centre are an attempt to deflect attention from its own shortcomings, especially stagnation in development projects and increasing corruption.”