BJP's Impact on India Post 2014: A Balanced Perspective on Implementation and Reforms

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been at the helm of India since 2014, leading to a variety of measures that have had profound impacts on the country. From the controversial demonetization to the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST), the BJP's strategies have been met with both praise and criticism. This article provides a balanced perspective on the impact of these policies and the broader political dynamics that have shaped India's progress.

Controversial Measures and Their Effects

Demonetization

One of the most notorious moves under the BJP's tenure was the demonetization of 500 and 1000 rupee notes in 2016. While proponents argued that it was a move to crack down on black money and prevent corruption, critics have pointed out that it led to significant deaths and economic hardships in rural areas. Many argue that the decision was poorly timed and executed, causing widespread disruptions in the lives of the poor and rural populations.

Implementation of GST

The introduction of GST (Goods and Services Tax) in 2017 was hailed as a major reform to streamline the tax system, which at the time was complex and fragmented. However, opponents claim that the implementation was rushed, causing many businesses, especially those in the middle-class sector, to suffer. This contrasts with the slower and more methodical approach taken in developed countries like Singapore and Australia.

Challenges in Implementation and Execution

The implementation of reforms under the BJP has often been criticized for its speed and the lack of necessary groundwork. For instance, the implementation of GST in developed nations took years, whereas India attempted it overnight. This rushed approach has often led to issues such as a loss of livelihoods for many middle-class and small business owners. Furthermore, the implementation of Aadhaar and GST has been marred by additional charges and inefficiencies.

For example, individuals who need to correct their Aadhaar details face charges of up to Rs. 150 per person, while services like Swiggy and Zomato now require validation of GST numbers for their validity. These charges, critics argue, add an unfair burden on a population that was already facing economic hardships.

Humanitarian and Emotional Impact

The impact of these policies on the common man has been significant. Figures such as 16 lakh PMC account holders suffering and 3 deaths, 41,000 home guards fired, and 3,000 railway employees being retrenched highlight the human cost. The government's response has been criticized, with a focus on unproductive spending such as the Statue of Unity and Diwali lights, rather than providing succor to the affected populations.

Illegal taxation practices have been reported in regions such as Nagaland, with people struggling to address their basic needs. Gas connections and electricity supplies have been cited as examples of systemic failures, exacerbating the hardships faced by the rural and urban poor.

Political Dynamics and Criticism

The BJP has been accused of engaging in amoral politics and even belittling the Constitution when it suits the party. The sense of political aggrandizement, as seen in the Teen Murthi Bhavan issue, is a stark example of the party's approach. Politicians and media have been quick to point out these excesses, often in a derogatory manner.

However, it is important to note that India, before the BJP's tenure, had become accustomed to hackneyed slogans and clichéd jingles. The Congress party, which ruled for decades, was often criticized for its complacency and inability to offer alternatives. It took the emergence of the BJP to reinvigorate the political landscape and provide fresh ideas and policies.

While the demonetization and GST may seem like drastic and disruptive measures, they were often implemented with a vision to address longstanding issues in the tax and financial sectors. Not everyone was ready for these changes, and they indeed caused short-term discomfort for many. However, the long-term benefits of these reforms, such as greater transparency and efficiency, are becoming increasingly evident.

Ultimately, the BJP's impact is a complex interplay of political will, economic necessity, and social dynamics. While some may argue that the party has 'destroyed' India, a fair assessment should consider both the positive and negative aspects of their policies. It is clear that the BJP brought about significant changes, often with the intent to reform and modernize India, even if the execution was sometimes met with criticism and backlash.