India’s recent military action in retaliation for the Pahalgam tragedy has triggered a powerful wave of nationalism. As the country moves closer to the Bihar Assembly elections, political observers are closely watching whether the BJP can convert this surge in patriotic sentiment into electoral gains.
The swift and decisive response to cross-border aggression has elevated the Modi government’s image, portraying it as strong and uncompromising on national security. Past experiences show that such moments can influence voters. The BJP benefitted from the Kargil War in 1999 and the Balakot airstrikes in 2019, both of which translated into electoral success.
This time, however, the challenge lies in bridging national emotions with state-level political complexities. Bihar’s political landscape is deeply rooted in caste-based alliances, local leadership equations, and socioeconomic grievances. National security may inspire temporary support, but whether it can sway the state’s diverse electorate is uncertain.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s waning popularity, along with growing criticism of his administrative capability, has added further unpredictability. While the BJP may try to amplify its strong stance against terrorism and use it to draw a contrast with previous governments’ passivity, voters in Bihar tend to differentiate between national and state issues.
Moreover, the Opposition has taken a cautious route this time. By standing with the government after the recent military strikes, they’ve avoided giving the BJP an opportunity to brand them as unpatriotic — a tactic that worked in 2019 but may not repeat now.
Despite this, the BJP could still try to keep the national security issue alive through smart campaigning, digital outreach, and symbolic messaging. In regions like Bihar, Assam, and West Bengal — where border and religious sensitivities remain high — even a diluted nationalist pitch can have considerable impact.
In the end, the BJP’s ability to maintain the current momentum until election day will be crucial. While patriotic emotions can influence political winds, converting them into votes requires grassroots strategy, credible local faces, and resonance with regional issues.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
Authentic news.
