In the wake of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unveiling its manifesto, titled "Modi Key Guarantee 2024," for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, opposition parties have launched a barrage of criticism, raising concerns over several key proposals put forth by the ruling party.
The inclusion of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the BJP's manifesto has sparked intense debate and criticism. While the BJP sees it as a move towards social cohesion and uniformity in laws, opposition parties argue that the proposed code infringes upon personal freedoms and undermines the diversity of India's cultural and legal landscape.
Opposition leaders have particularly denounced the BJP's stance on issues such as polygamy, child marriage, idat, and Halala, contending that imposing a uniform code could disregard the unique customs and practices of various religious and cultural communities across the country.
Furthermore, the BJP's ambitious proposal for "One Nation, One Election" and a common electoral system has drawn skepticism from opposition ranks. Critics argue that such a move could undermine the federal structure of India's democracy and curtail the rights of states to hold elections independently, thereby centralizing power in the hands of the ruling party.
The BJP's promises of free ration, water, gas connections, and electricity for the next five years to the underprivileged have also faced scrutiny. Opposition parties accuse the BJP of making populist pledges without providing a concrete plan for their implementation, raising doubts about the feasibility and sustainability of such schemes.
Moreover, concerns have been raised about the BJP's emphasis on technology, with the party pledging to work towards implementing 6G technology. Critics argue that while technological advancement is important, the BJP's focus on futuristic technologies overlooks pressing issues such as poverty alleviation, healthcare, and education.
In response to the criticism, BJP leaders have defended their manifesto, asserting that it reflects the party's commitment to transformative governance and inclusive development. They have called upon the electorate to judge the manifesto based on its vision for a "Viksit Bharat" or developed India.
As the electoral campaign heats up, the criticism surrounding the BJP's manifesto underscores the divergent visions and priorities of India's political landscape, setting the stage for a spirited contest in the upcoming elections.
