Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha election 2024: BJP - Past performance, key issues, challenges and more

PTI- A file photo of Amit Shah, Yogi Adityanath and Narendra Modi

Uttar Pradesh (UP) stands as the crucible where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has forged its path to national prominence, propelled by a blend of strategic geography and demographic significance. Traditionally, the BJP's agenda in UP has revolved around pivotal issues like the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the push for a Uniform Civil Code, anchoring its electoral fortunes in the state.

The Ram temple movement in the late 1980s catalyzed widespread support for the BJP, culminating in a resounding victory in the 1989 Lok Sabha elections, where it secured 85 seats. Subsequent electoral triumphs in 1991 and 1996 further solidified the BJP's foothold in UP, with the state emerging as its stronghold.

The BJP's ascent to becoming the largest party in 1996, under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, marked a significant milestone, with UP contributing 52 seats to its tally. However, electoral dynamics witnessed fluctuations over the years, culminating in the decisive victory of 2014, propelled by Narendra Modi's leadership and a resurgence of Hindutva nationalism. UP, yet again, served as the linchpin of the BJP's triumph, delivering a remarkable 71 seats to the party.

The momentum continued in the 2019 elections, where the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) clinched 64 seats from UP. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has emerged as a pivotal figure, embodying the party's agenda of zero tolerance towards crime and corruption. Under his leadership, UP has witnessed a transformative phase, marked by the effective implementation of welfare schemes such as the Ujjwala scheme, housing initiatives for the homeless, and free ration distribution.

The beneficiaries of these welfare schemes, often referred to as "labhyarthis," have emerged as a formidable voting bloc, reshaping the electoral calculus in UP. These schemes, ranging from housing units and LPG connections to health insurance under Ayushman Bharat and financial support for farmers through PM Kisan Samman Yojna, have garnered widespread support among the populace.

The distribution of free food grains, extended till 2029, further solidifies the BJP's appeal among the masses. This shift towards welfare-oriented governance has disrupted the traditional narrative of caste-based identity politics, underscoring the BJP's ability to navigate the complex socio-political landscape of UP. As the state braces for future electoral battles, the BJP's stronghold in UP remains a pivotal factor shaping India's political trajectory.

In 2024 too the BJP is keeping its faith on labhyarthis as well as the aura of Ram Mandir to take the party toits target of winning all the 80 seats.