Effect Of Underlying Dissatisfaction Among Dalit Voters In Lok Sabha Elections 2024

Paromita Das 

GG News Bureau

New Delhi, 30th May. An underlying trend of dissatisfaction among Dalit voters is evident in the political scene as the general election approaches its final stretch. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s narrative of a “Viksit Bharat,” is being challenged by this unhappiness, which is becoming more evident in the lack of a coordinated opposition campaign. Many Dalit voters express cynicism and unhappiness over their economic conditions, exposing huge gaps in the government’s development promises, despite the BJP’s portrayal of economic success.

Examining the opinions of Dalit voters in important constituencies in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in greater detail reveals a recurring issue of financial hardship. Research suggests that fewer than 10% of Dalit participants believe their income has improved or fulfills their needs. Furthermore, more than 60% of respondents think that economic disparity has gotten worse, underscoring a significant gap between a growth story and the actual circumstances that many Dalits face. Workplace problems highlight the gap. Despite the high daily wage labor rates among Dalit respondents, a sizable portion of them—especially the female respondents—report unemployment.

Increasing costs exacerbate this economic hardship. These complaints about the economy clearly refute the government’s promises of inclusive growth and cast doubt on the viability of economic initiatives. It’s interesting to note that despite widespread economic unrest, there isn’t a discernible tendency to vote against the BJP. Voter preferences are heavily influenced by the idea of “face” or leadership. Due to his strong national profile and well-cultivated image as a capable, decisive leader, many Dalits still support Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The wider economic unrest is frequently overshadowed by PM Modi’s personality, particularly with Dalit women who are more inclined to support him despite experiencing greater unemployment rates. This contradiction draws attention to nuanced election dynamics. Economic concerns are significant, but they don’t necessarily influence how people vote. Thanks to widespread media coverage and PM Modi’s charismatic leadership style, a captivating story is presented to voters, who find it enticing. A key component of the BJP’s strategy is its human appeal, which helps PM Modi retain a sizable following in spite of the economic complaints made by a large number of Dalits. The intricacy of elections is further compounded by the role assistance systems play. Although it is noteworthy, having access to programs like free rations and health insurance does not always equate to support for the BJP.

 Even while the economy does not clearly enhance their skills, these programmes support PM Modi’s personal appeal by adding to the greater story of him as a benefactor. Regarding the election, Dalit dissatisfaction is a major obstacle for the BJP. Without a coordinated opposition campaign, this discontent has emerged naturally and points to underlying economic problems that go beyond political narratives. It is unclear how this unhappiness will affect Dalits’ voting patterns as the election draws to a close and whether PM Modi’s popularity will be able to continue to eclipse the harsh economic realities that many of them must deal with.