Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, exuding confidence. He proclaimed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would secure a hat-trick victory on June 4. During a rally for BJP candidate Anita Som Prakash, Modi declared, “India has made up its mind for the Modi government’s third term.” He cited the party’s full majority to fulfill the dream of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). Moreover, Modi asserted the 21st century belongs to India, with the “strong government” set to return.
Roadmap for the Future
Modi unveiled a 125-day roadmap, prioritizing works after assuming power. The first quarter will focus on youth, with key decisions for the next five years and a vision for the next 25 years. This roadmap aims to shape a new India. Additionally, the Prime Minister expressed his determination to develop Punjab, sensing the state’s mood favoring his party.
Shots Fired Against Opposition
During the rally, Modi fired shots on the Opposition of trying to revoke reservations for Dalits, backwards, and tribals. He claimed the Congress party and INDIA bloc members insulted the Constitution’s spirit and Dr. Ambedkar. Modi alleged they want to transfer reservations from Dalits and backward classes to Muslims. He asserted his government exposed this conspiracy, leading to criticism against him.
Targeting AAP’s Corruption
The Prime Minister criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing it of learning corruption lessons from the Congress. He stated, “Another corrupt party (AAP) has joined the Congress.” Modi alleged the AAP made drugs its means of earning in Punjab, despite promising to free the state from the menace. He also highlighted the alleged liquor scam in Delhi and the rampant mining mafia.
Varanasi’s Transformation
Varanasi, Modi’s constituency, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Development projects worth Rs 45,000 crore have landed in the city since 2014. Over 8 crore pilgrims visited Varanasi in 2023 alone, injecting Rs 21.5 crore into the local economy. Initiatives like the Kashi Vishwanath corridor, sewage infrastructure, and effective air pollution control have revitalised the city.
Residents’ Perspectives
Residents acknowledge the positive changes, with many expressing support for Modi’s re-election. Aishwarya Sharma, a local businesswoman, praised the development, particularly the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, for boosting tourism and enabling a thriving homestay business. Rameshwar Kapooria, a former non-BJP voter, commended the improved sewage infrastructure, underground cabling, and roads around the temple. However, some residents raised concerns about overcrowding and the need for better management.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s confident proclamation of a hat-trick victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections is buoyed by the significant developmental strides made in his constituency, Varanasi, and the broader vision for India’s future. His campaign in Punjab, marked by promises of a developed India and criticisms of opposition parties, underscores the BJP’s strategic focus on youth and long-term growth. The transformative impact in Varanasi, coupled with Modi’s robust roadmap for the future, positions the BJP favorably among voters. While residents of Varanasi largely praise the improvements, some concerns about urban management persist.Â