Showing astute political strategy in RS polls, BJP seems all set for Lok Sabha elections

Even before the Lok Sabha elections, whose dates are yet to be confirmed, the BJP is busy securing one political citadel after another. Beyond the mathematical calculation of winning eight Rajya Sabha seats of the 15 available in three States, it has managed to bag two extra seats — the lone seat in Himachal Pradesh and one in Uttar Pradesh, dealing another body blow to the INDIA bloc, an Opposition alliance. Worse, the upset in Himachal would likely embolden the saffron party to demand a trust vote against the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Government. Already, the Congress Government is seeing a fresh scramble for power amid abandonment by its own members, the latest being the announcement of resignation by State PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh. Trouble has been mounting for the Congress since Tuesday, when it lost the sole Rajya Sabha seat to the BJP with six of its members cross-voting in the poll. The RS elections are often seen as a litmus test of political equations within States and among parties. They reflect the ability of political parties to rally support and secure positions of influence in the Upper House of Parliament. However, the cross-voting has added a new dimension to the political landscape, indicating possible shifts in alliances and loyalties. The INDIA bloc, comprising 28 Opposition parties, had hoped to consolidate its position in the Rajya Sabha. However, this setback has raised questions about the cohesion and effectiveness of the Opposition alliance, even in States where the Congress is in power.

These instances of brazen cross-voting have not only raised eyebrows but also sparked speculation about its potential implications for the Lok Sabha elections. The BJP's success in securing additional seats through cross-voting underscores its growing clout and organisational strength, especially in key battleground States. For the Opposition, the Rajya Sabha poll results serve as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for greater unity and coordination. The failure to prevent cross-voting not only reflects internal fissures but also raises questions about the effectiveness of their electoral strategy. As the Lok Sabha elections draw near, the Opposition parties must regroup and realign their priorities to present a formidable challenge to the BJP. At the same time, the BJP's latest triumph should not be viewed in isolation. It reflects the party’s relentless pursuit of expanding its footprint across regions and States. The BJP's ability to capitalise on opportunities, whether through defections, alliances or cross-voting, underscores its status as a formidable political force. Looking ahead, the Rajya Sabha poll results indicate a shifting landscape where traditional alliances may no longer hold sway, and parties must adapt to changing realities to stay relevant. The BJP's latest success is a testament to its adaptability and astute political strategy. In modern times, political expediency is everything; moral values, ideologies and loyalties can be taken up later.