Brand Modi Drives BJP's Historic Rise and Reform Agenda Across India

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which secured only two seats in its first Lok Sabha election in 1984, has transformed into India's dominant political force, now leading governments in 22 states under the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). This rise, predicted by former party president Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is increasingly driven by the 'Brand Modi' phenomenon centered on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Under Modi, the BJP has achieved two of its three foundational objectives: the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. The third goal, implementing a Uniform Civil Code, remains pending but has seen preliminary steps in BJP-ruled states. The party's reform agenda has expanded to include 'One Nation, One Election' and boundary delimitation, requiring significant legislative power akin to that used for Article 370's abrogation.

Recent state election victories underscore the party's resurgence after a setback in the 2024 general elections. In West Bengal, the BJP won a historic two-thirds majority, fulfilling a long-held dream linked to party founder Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. Bihar saw the BJP secure its first chief minister, ending a two-decade junior partnership with Janata Dal (United). Delhi returned to BJP rule after 27 years, while Odisha and Maharashtra recorded first-time majorities, the latter dismantling a united opposition alliance.

These victories have bolstered the BJP's confidence and weakened the opposition coalition. In Punjab, the BJP re-entered politics independently after previous alliances with the Shiromani Akali Dal. The party's successes across diverse regions highlight the enduring appeal of Brand Modi, positioning the BJP to pursue its ambitious reform agenda with renewed parliamentary strength.