The BJP could have still performed much better on its own and won enough seats to reflect the people’s desire for change of government. But the internal fissures in this once disciplined and united party were so glaring, both at the central and state levels, that far from attracting new supporters, it disillusioned a significant section of its own committed voters. In contrast, even those who abhor the dynastic rule and the culture of sycophancy in the Congress could see that the party scored over the BJP in terms of unity of command. With the media highlighting the lack of cohesion within the BJP, the many positive aspects of its governance and development agenda took the backseat. Hence, the BJP failed to capture the imagination of the people either as an agent of change or as a guarantor of stability. The BJP’s failure was the Congress’s gain. Since the desired change seemed impossible, the National Mind rooted for stability. It chose the Congress as a default option, giving it enough parliamentary strength to ensure a stable government.

Difficult days are ahead for the BJP. It faces problems that are multi-dimensional. Its second consecutive defeat in parliamentary elections calls for honest and mercilessly self-critical introspection on issues relating to ideology, organisational health of the party, leadership at various levels, management of alliances, and much more. It must seek a fresh endorsement from the National Mind, which is possible if the BJP, instead of trying to take short-cuts to revival, reforms itself thoroughly as a party with an inspiring and inclusive transformational agenda. The BJP has come out successfully from many an agni-pareeksha in the past. It will certainly do so again.

... contd.