Political strategist Prashant Kishor, in an exclusive conversation with India Today, stated that the BJP is likely to secure around 300 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Kishor expressed, 'Since the day PM Modi suggested that BJP would bag 370 seats and NDA would cross 400, I have been convinced that this is not possible. These are merely slogans to boost the party workers' morale. Attaining 370 seats is implausible for BJP, but it's also certain that they won't dip below the 270-mark.'
Kishor added that he believes BJP will match or slightly improve upon their previous tally of 303 seats, while also discussing issues that have incited public anger against the party.
'The Public Will Play the Role of the Opposition'
In the interview, Kishor mentioned that amidst a weakening opposition, the public will inevitably take on their role. He recalled how, between 2014-2019, there was vigorous opposition to the land acquisition bill, with the government consistently issuing ordinances. Eventually, the government had to step back, marking the only major protest during PM Modi’s first term. He stated that in the second tenure from 2019-2024, the government returned with greater strength, but the number of protests also escalated.
Protests Anticipated on These Issues - Prashant Kishor
According to Kishor, the Modi administration had to succumb to public pressure three times during its second term. This included the agricultural laws, opposition to CAA-NRC, and backlash relating to the SC-ST Act. 'The government retracted the farm laws, delayed implementing CAA-NRC, and stepped back on the SC-ST Act within 7-8 days. Similarly, we can expect more protests in the times ahead,' stated Kishor.
Kishor also predicted that over the next five years, demonstrations would likely arise concerning rural economy distress, GST-related losses, and unemployment tied to reservation issues.
