New Delhi, July 31 : As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach, the BJP is carefully considering its strategy regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s candidature. Recent ground reports have indicated that Ramanathapuram may not be a favorable choice for Modi’s constituency. In light of this, the party is now exploring the possibilities of fielding him from either Kanyakumari or Coimbatore.
Both Kanyakumari and Coimbatore have proven to be strongholds for the BJP at the grassroots level, making them potential choices for Modi’s candidature. Leaders like Pon Radhakrishnan and CP Radhakrishnan have previously won from these constituencies, further enhancing their appeal.
Sources within the BJP revealed that the party had initially considered Ramanathapuram, which has a significant Muslim population, but a detailed study showed that the party lacked proper ground support and booth committees in the area. Consequently, the BJP is now contemplating the idea of nominating Modi from either Kanyakumari or Coimbatore, where the party enjoys considerable grassroots support.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of the BJP, is reportedly open to the idea of Modi contesting from either of these seats. To boost its presence in Tamil Nadu, the BJP has been organizing various programs, with senior leaders actively campaigning in the state. Prime Minister Modi has also been proactive in promoting Tamil language and culture, demonstrating the party’s interest in making inroads into the region.
Drawing inspiration from past instances where Congress leaders like Indira Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi contested from specific constituencies, the BJP believes that fielding Modi from Kanyakumari or Coimbatore can have far-reaching positive consequences for the party and the Sanghparivar. With nearly 80% booth representations in both regions, the BJP aims to capitalize on Modi’s popularity to make significant gains in the South Indian states.
After facing setbacks in the recent Karnataka Assembly elections, the BJP is focusing on gaining leverage in Tamil Nadu and Telangana. According to the party’s extensive studies, Kerala is a challenging state compared to Tamil Nadu and Telangana, and Modi’s candidature is expected to influence the overall political landscape in all South Indian states.
C. Rajeev, Director of the Centre for Policy and Development Studies, a Chennai-based think tank, believes that Modi contesting from either Kanyakumari or Coimbatore could be a game-changing decision for the BJP and the Sanghparivar. This move is expected to strengthen the BJP’s presence and political prospects in the region and beyond.”
