CSDS-Lokniti Post-Poll Survey: BJP’s Underperformance in Uttar Pradesh

CSDS-Lokniti Post-Poll Survey: BJP’s Underperformance in Uttar Pradesh

Keywords: BJP, Uttar Pradesh, Post-Poll Survey, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Yogi Adityanath

The Center for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) and Lokniti have conducted a post-poll survey to analyze the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) underperformance in the recent Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. The survey revealed several factors that contributed to the BJP’s lower-than-expected performance.

Key Findings:

Erosion of Support: The survey found that the BJP lost significant support among backward classes, Dalits, and women. These groups, which had traditionally backed the party in large numbers, shifted allegiance to other parties.
Anti-Incumbency: The survey indicated that anti-incumbency played a role in the BJP’s defeat. The voters were dissatisfied with the performance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s government, particularly in handling the COVID-19 pandemic and economic distress.
Polarization Tactic: The survey suggests that the BJP’s attempt to polarize the electorate on religious lines failed to yield the desired results. While it mobilized some voters, it also alienated others.
Modi’s Appeal Diminished: The survey also noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal had diminished in Uttar Pradesh. Voters were less inclined to vote for the BJP solely based on Modi’s popularity.
SP’s Alliance and Campaign: The Samajwadi Party (SP), which formed an alliance with smaller parties, ran an effective campaign that targeted the BJP’s weak points and offered a credible alternative.

Conclusion:

The CSDS-Lokniti post-poll survey highlights the complex factors that led to the BJP’s underperformance in Uttar Pradesh. The erosion of support among core constituencies, anti-incumbency, and the failure of polarization tactics suggest the need for the party to introspect and adapt its strategies moving forward.