In the recent Lok Sabha elections, the Congress managed to secure seven seats in Punjab, marking a significant comeback after the 2022 assembly elections where they only won 23% of the seats. The question arises: How did the Congress bounce back in Punjab? The answer lies in the intricate dynamics of political fragmentation and strategic voting patterns in the state.
One of the key factors contributing to the Congress’s success was the unprecedented level of political fragmentation in Punjab, with the Effective Number of Parties reaching a record high of 4.3. This fragmentation allowed the Congress to capitalize on its vote share in selected pockets of the state, particularly in the Malwa region, where it saw a significant gain in vote share. In contrast, the AAP experienced a sharp decline in various regions, losing ground to the Congress.
Moreover, the Congress strategically aligned itself with farmers’ sentiments, backing the ongoing protests against the controversial farm reforms introduced by the central government. By promising to waive farmers’ debts and addressing local concerns through a detailed vision document, the Congress effectively connected with voters on grassroots issues.
The party also managed to overcome internal factionalism and present a united front in the elections, fielding key leaders who conducted dynamic campaigns in their constituencies. The public disillusionment with the AAP government further propelled the Congress’s success, as many voters shifted back to the grand old party.
Overall, the Congress’s revival in Punjab demonstrates a strategic approach to grassroots politics, leveraging political fragmentation, grassroots issues, and public sentiment to secure a significant win in the Lok Sabha elections. As the state enters a new phase of electoral and ideological fragmentation, the Congress’s resurgence marks a turning point in Punjab’s political landscape.
