BJP’s Intensified Campaign in Tamil Nadu: From Language to Local Issues

In Short

• With just days left for polls, Tamil Nadu has emerged as BJP’s key battleground
• Tamil Nadu key to achieve PM Modi’s dream of winning 400 seats
• BJP has attempted to change the narrative by raising local issues

As the Lok Sabha polls draw near, Tamil Nadu has become a crucial battleground for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself spearheading an assertive campaign strategy.

Emphasizing his personal connection with the state and the Tamil language, PM Modi’s frequent visits, dedicated social media initiatives, and public appearances in traditional attire reflect the BJP’s concerted efforts to gain ground in this traditionally challenging territory.

PM Modi’s outreach efforts have been multifaceted. Not only has he visited Tamil Nadu six times already this year, but he has also launched the ‘NamoInTamil’ handle to disseminate his speeches in Tamil, underscoring his commitment to reaching out to Tamil-speaking audiences.

Additionally, his appearance on Thanthi TV marked a significant milestone as the first sitting Prime Minister to engage with a Tamil channel, further cementing his endeavor to connect with Tamil Nadu’s electorate.

The symbolism of PM Modi’s attire, donning the traditional ‘veshti’ during his interactions, was evident as he sought to resonate with Tamil Nadu’s cultural ethos.

His remarks, likening the global reach of Tamil cuisine to the potential of the Tamil language, underscored the BJP’s emphasis on cultural pride and linguistic heritage.

Moreover, PM Modi’s discourse consistently incorporates references to Tamil literary figures, demonstrating an understanding and appreciation of the state’s rich literary tradition.

The BJP’s electoral strategy in Tamil Nadu extends beyond cultural symbolism to address pressing local issues. One such issue is the longstanding Katchatheevu island dispute, which the BJP has resurrected to question the DMK-Congress alliance’s commitment to Tamil interests.

Through the revelations made by Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai regarding the ceding of the island to Sri Lanka and subsequent efforts to retrieve it, the BJP aims to rally support among Tamil Nadu’s fishing communities, a significant electoral constituency.

Annamalai’s appointment as the BJP’s state chief and his extensive ‘En Mann, En Makkal’ padayatra across Tamil Nadu exemplify the party’s grassroots approach.

His outreach efforts have invigorated the BJP’s presence in the state, bolstering confidence among voters and rejuvenating the party’s electoral prospects.

Furthermore, the BJP’s emphasis on development projects worth over Rs 30,000 crore in Tamil Nadu underscores its commitment to addressing the state’s socio-economic needs.

PM Modi’s personal involvement in inaugurating these projects highlights the party’s determination to prioritize Tamil Nadu’s development agenda alongside its electoral aspirations.

Despite these concerted efforts, the BJP faces significant challenges in Tamil Nadu, where regional parties have traditionally dominated the political landscape.

However, with a combination of cultural affinity, grassroots engagement, and development promises, the BJP aims to make significant electoral inroads in the state, positioning itself as a formidable contender in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.