The Modi vs. Rahul Election in 2019: A Historical Overview
The 2019 Indian General Elections between Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi brought into question the direction of the country's future. Despite various controversies and speculations, the outcome was clear, with Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on a resounding victory with a strong majority.
Demographic Impact and Religious Context
Numbers and demographics played a significant role during the elections. With Kashi Vishwanath Dham and Ayodhya becoming focal points, the religious context deeply influenced voters. According to estimates, there were approximately 7 crore devotees who visited Kashi Vishwanath Dham in 2023, and over 5 lakh devotees arrived on the first day in Ayodhya just to catch a glimpse of Ram Lalla. It is expected that around 10 crore devotees will visit Ayodhya Dham in 2024, solidifying the religious fervor and support for Modi and the BJP.
Political Context and Polarization
The opposition to Modi's incumbent party, the BJP, was led by Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party. The competition between Modi and Rahul Gandhi was seen by many as a definitive battle of political ideologies and leadership. Rahul's stance and policies were often viewed as inadequate, with many considering him light years behind Modi in terms of leadership and governance.
The Clear Majority and Final Verdict
With clear majorities for the BJP and a robust 2/3 majority for the NDA coalition, the final verdict was inevitable. Modi continued to be the strong contender with a firm backing from the masses. His policies, especially under the Swacch Bharat Abhiyan, Make in India, and Digital India initiatives, resonated with the Indian public. The Dharma (divine order or moral law) was seen to be on Modi's side, making him the undisputed choice for the electorate. Many suggested that Rahul Gandhi should step back and take a Vacation from Responsibility (VRS), especially considering the harm his family's actions had against peace in the Hindu community.
Exit Polls and the Veracity of Elections
Even with exit polls and other survey reports clearly indicating the BJP's victory, some argued that if the elections had been free and fair without any rigging, hacking, or tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the results would have aligned with the exit polls. Many pointed out that 100% of VVPAT slips (Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trail) should be counted to provide accurate and unbiased results. The persistent belief in exit polls being false highlights the ongoing debate on the integrity of the Indian electoral system.
Ultimately, the 2019 elections in India were seen as a clear victory for Modi, marking a significant milestone in the country's political landscape.