The 2024 Lok Sabha elections delivered a jolt to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s otherwise unshakeable political standing. For the first time since taking office in 2014, Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were forced to reckon with a stark electoral setback, prompting speculation about whether the Prime Minister is genuinely altering his approach or merely navigating the necessities of coalition politics. As Modi grapples with a diminished majority, his recent actions suggest a blend of flexibility and pragmatism, leaving observers to wonder whether these are signs of a new modus operandi or tactical manoeuvres in response to political headwinds.
Modi’s BJP, which once rode a wave of nationalist fervour and economic promises, now finds itself in a more precarious position, needing to accommodate the interests of coalition partners and regional satraps.
Take, for instance, the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) attempt to overhaul the regulations governing Waqf Board properties. The proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, introduced by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, aimed to reform Waqf board operations, correcting perceived flaws in the original Waqf Act of 1995. Rijiju assured Parliament that the amendments would respect religious freedoms while enhancing oversight and governance. However, the bill faced resistance, not only from the opposition but also from BJP allies, who advised caution and broader consultations before proceeding. The government’s decision to refer the bill to a parliamentary committee for detailed discussions was a concession to coalition partners and an unusual display of deference from a leader known for his unilateral decision-making style.
This move underscored the broader challenges Modi faces in maintaining the delicate balance between his party’s core agenda and the diverse demands of his coalition partners. Unlike previous years when the BJP’s brute majority allowed for swift passage of contentious bills, the new political reality has forced Modi to adopt a more consultative approach, particularly on sensitive issues that risk alienating key allies. The Waqf Board amendments, a seemingly technical issue, have broader implications for the BJP’s outreach to minority communities and its image as a party willing to listen.
Similarly, Modi’s response to the collapse of a 35-foot statue of the Maratha king Shivaji in Maharashtra marked a rare moment of public apology from a Prime Minister typically loath to admit mistakes. Speaking in Palghar, Modi not only laid the foundation stone for a massive port project but also apologized to those offended by the statue’s collapse, a symbolic gesture aimed at placating sentiments in a politically sensitive state. “For me, my colleagues, and everyone, Shivaji Maharaj is not just a king but a revered figure,” Modi said. “I bow my head at his feet and apologize to my deity.” This act of contrition, unusual for a leader who has often projected a resolute, even infallible image, raised questions about whether Modi is becoming more attuned to the complexities of coalition governance and regional sensitivities.
Modi’s newfound pliability is also evident in the introduction of a Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), promising government employees a guaranteed 50% of their salary as pension along with inflation adjustments. This move is a direct counter to the Congress party’s push for a return to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), which had gained traction among the workforce, particularly in states like Himachal Pradesh. The Congress’s OPS rhetoric had struck a chord with government employees, a demographic traditionally aligned with the BJP, but the new UPS seeks to offer a sustainable alternative while bolstering the BJP’s appeal ahead of crucial assembly elections in states like Haryana, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand.
Yet, despite these instances of seeming adaptability, the point remains whether Modi’s actions reflect a genuine shift in leadership style or are simply pragmatic responses to political challenges. While the BJP’s new pension proposal took 18 months to finalize, it appears timed to coincide with electoral necessities rather than a fundamental policy overhaul. The UPS, set to take effect from the next financial year, offers a stable retirement income for government employees, a strategic carrot to counter the Congress’s promises and maintain the BJP’s voter base.
Critics argue that Modi’s core governing philosophy — marked by centralization, a strong personal brand, and a focus on nationalist themes — remains largely unchanged. His concessions, they contend, are less about altering his approach and more about managing the coalition dynamics that have become critical in the wake of the 2024 electoral results. The BJP’s need for allies has never been more pronounced, as demonstrated by the party’s concessions on issues like the Waqf board amendments and pension schemes. Allies such as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), JanaSena Party (JSP), and Chirag Paswan’s Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) have all signalled the limits of their support, pushing Modi to adapt, at least superficially, to their demands.
The coalition’s growing assertiveness reflects a broader trend in Indian politics where regional voices are increasingly unwilling to be mere appendages to national parties. Modi’s decisions henceforth will be scrutinized by allies who can sway the fate of his government.
As India heads towards the next set of elections, Modi’s flexibility, whether real or perceived, will face further scrutiny. His ability to navigate coalition pressures while retaining his party’s distinctive ideological stance will be crucial in shaping the BJP’s electoral fortunes in forthcoming Assembly polls, especially in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jammu & Kashmir. For now, Modi appears to be playing a careful game, one that blends the necessity of political pragmatism with the imperatives of preserving his legacy.
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