BJP: The True Lies Behind the Rising Corruption and Declining Quality of Life in India

India's BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) has been in power for over a decade, yet the narrative of progress and development does not seem to hold water. Contested again with 2 crore opportunities and 15 lakh BPL (Below Poverty Line) families, the BJP’s relentless attacks on Bollywood, the country's cultural symbol, and the promises of poverty alleviation, have fallen flat. The question arises, what cunning nature is to fool 140 crore Indian community? It is not a small matter; manifestos and policies that promised welfare have often been surprising in their outcomes, especially when vocal judges have declared the removal of certain governmental articles and orders.

Several significant events, such as the abolition of Article 370 and the revocation of special status for Ladakh, Kashmir, and other states, have raised further questions about the BJP’s commitment to justice and equality. Despite SRI D.Y. Chandrachud's order and other clear declarations, the failure to sanction state status when it is within the hands of a jury shows a troubling disregard for legal frameworks. The BJP, a mix of the Janata Dal and RSS, has been criticized for using Modi’s decade in power to further their own ends, with little to no tangible change for the common man.

Declining Economic Well-Being

Under the BJP’s governance, unemployment has surged and essential services have seen a sharp decline. For instance, the price of basic necessities like rice and cooking gas has skyrocketed. In the past decade, the price of dal (lentils) has nearly doubled, and even rice costs over 80 rupees, making basic food items unaffordable. Additionally, the introduction of GST (Goods and Services Tax) has disproportionately affected the middle and lower-income groups, with the rich benefiting from tax cuts while welfare programs are often seen as ineffective in lifting the poor out of poverty.

Tax systems have also become burdensome. In Andhra Pradesh, for example, the introduction of additional taxes has led to a situation where people pay more in tax for services like water and electricity bills than they should. This system has been criticized for being more beneficial to politicians, who use it to legitimize their own unearned wealth via bribes. The imposition of tolls has also been detrimental, with some even considering it a form of corruption that stifles the automotive industry and its potential jobs.

Addressing the Root of the Problem

The ultimate solution to the challenges posed by BJP governance lies in prioritizing job creation over simple tax measures. Through the provision of employment opportunities, the government can actively participate in poverty reduction. Instead of relying on indirect taxation, which burdens the masses, or direct taxation schemes that are perceived as unfair, the focus should be on robust economic growth that benefits all segments of society. Indirect taxation systems that penalize the common man and non-beneficial welfare programs must be reevaluated.

A system that ensures true inclusivity and benefits the most vulnerable is necessary. This includes reducing the cost of essential goods, providing fair tax systems, and promoting economic policies that strengthen the middle class and the agrarian sector. The BJP’s track record suggests that reforms are needed to align policies more closely with the aspirations of the common Indian and ensure that the country’s future is marked by transparency, accountability, and genuine progress.

Ultimately, the true test of any government lies in its ability to make tangible changes that improve the lives of its citizens, regardless of political affiliations. The BJP’s failure to deliver on its promises and its continued emphasis on divisive policies highlight the urgent need for a fundamental reassessment of its governance approach. As the opposition parties and civil society continue to demand accountability, the Indian public must remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring that the country’s political system is held to the highest standards of integrity and public service.