In a bid to bolster the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) influence in the southern region and kickstart the Election Year 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a two-day visit to Tamil Nadu and Lakshadweep. Amidst growing speculation, there are hints that Modi might contemplate contesting from a southern constituency, possibly Ramanathapuram, to showcase BJP’s expanding footprint in a region historically out of its grasp.
The focal point of the visit, scheduled for January 2-3, is Tamil Nadu, a state ruled by the DMK party. Recent controversies, sparked by Udhayanidhi Stalin’s comments on “eradicating” Sanatan Dharma, are expected to be addressed by Modi during his visit. This move aligns with the BJP’s strategy to capitalize on such issues, as witnessed in their successful campaign in recent Assembly polls.
Sources suggest that Modi’s potential candidacy in Ramanathapuram holds symbolic significance due to its deep-rooted cultural and religious ties with Varanasi, his current constituency. The annual “Tamil Kashi Sangamam” organized by the Modi government since 2022 aims to celebrate the age-old links between Tamil Nadu and Varanasi, reinforcing the connection.
Furthermore, the proximity of Rameswaram, within Ramanathapuram, to Adam’s Bridge adds a religious touch to the BJP’s messaging, considering many Hindus believe it to be Ram Setu—the bridge built by Lord Ram’s army to Lanka. The BJP remains tight-lipped about Modi’s potential southern candidacy, emphasizing a “special south India focus” for 2024.
Apart from Modi, there are speculations about other senior leaders like Nirmala Sitharaman and S. Jaishankar contesting in Tamil Nadu. The breakup of the BJP’s alliance with the AIADMK provides an opportunity for the party to showcase its strength independently in the state.
Internal surveys indicate Modi’s high popularity in southern states, prompting the BJP to leverage it for electoral victories and organizational expansion. Modi’s visit agenda includes inaugurating and laying foundation stones for various development projects in Tamil Nadu and Lakshadweep, totaling over Rs 20,000 crores.
The forthcoming general elections, expected in April-May, have heightened political activity, and Modi’s visit is seen as a strategic move to blend official events with political campaigning. The BJP, aiming to counter a north vs. south narrative, seeks to demonstrate its strength across regions and dispel the Opposition’s claims.
Modi’s itinerary includes inaugurating projects in railways, roads, oil and gas, and shipping, as well as addressing the convocation at Bharathidasan University. The visit is not only a political maneuver but also an opportunity for the BJP to engage in Swachh Bharat initiatives, emphasizing cleanliness drives in alignment with Modi’s vision.
As the countdown for the general election begins, Modi’s visit to Tamil Nadu and Lakshadweep is poised to set the tone for BJP’s electoral strategy and solidify its position in a region historically challenging for the party.
Comments