Since 2014, Indian politics has been part of what experts call the “fourth party system,” with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) holding a strong position at both national and state levels. Many have wondered if this dominance is long-term or just temporary, driven by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and charm.
Recent state elections in Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry provide clear answers. Despite the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) losing some seats in the 2024 general election—which hinted at a decline in Modi’s appeal—the BJP has performed even stronger between 2024-26 compared to previous periods.
In earlier terms like 2014-16, Modi was seen as a transformative leader, and in 2019-21, he was viewed as a pro-poor leader with immense public trust. However, it is during the current cycle (2024-26) that the BJP has achieved major wins, including victories in Odisha, Delhi, and West Bengal—especially significant since West Bengal was seen as a key battleground.
These results suggest that the BJP’s dominance is not just about Modi’s personal appeal but reflects a deeper structural shift in Indian politics.