Can Congress go toe to toe with BJP on the nationalism narrative?

By Admin

23 May, 2025

The Challenge of the Nationalism Discourse

Nationalism remains one of the most powerful political narratives in India. Over the last decade, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has strategically used nationalism as a tool to consolidate its voter base. From military operations like Balakot to the recent Operation Sindoor, Modi’s language has blended military might with emotional fervor. His latest fiery rhetoric in Bikaner, where he proclaimed, “Modi ka dimag thanda hai, thanda rehta hai, lekin Modi ka lahu garam hota hai… ab toh Modi ki nason mein lahu nahi, garam sindoor beh raha hai” (Modi remains calm, but his blood runs hot. Now, hot vermilion flows in his veins), is as much a message to Pakistan as it is a direct appeal to India’s nationalist sentiments.

Against this charged backdrop, the Congress party is struggling to define and reclaim its version of nationalism—one rooted in inclusivity and historical legacy.

Congress: The Legacy Holder or a Lost Voice?

Ironically, it was the Congress that led India’s freedom movement and laid the foundation for the Republic. But in today’s hyper-polarized narrative, that legacy isn’t translating into political currency. The Congress’s draft resolution at the recent extended Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Ahmedabad tried to draw a line between its inclusive nationalism and the BJP-RSS’s “pseudo nationalism,” which it claimed aims to erase India’s diversity.

However, these efforts are often seen as reactive rather than proactive. The party’s inconsistent tone on sensitive issues, such as targeting External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar over claims of informing Pakistan prior to military strikes, has been labeled “petty” even by party insiders. Senior leaders fear such moves can alienate moderate voters and strengthen the BJP’s narrative of being the sole guardian of India’s national interest.

A Muddled Message in Crucial Times

The Congress’s communication chief, Jairam Ramesh, called multi-party delegations “weapons of mass distraction.” But statements like these, while perhaps technically accurate, often fail to resonate with the emotional undertones the BJP deploys so effectively. The party’s critique risks sounding like nitpicking rather than principled opposition—especially when contrasted with Modi’s high-voltage, symbol-laden oratory.

As The Indian Express noted post the Ahmedabad AICC session, the Congress faces an “uphill task of reclamation and resuscitation” when it comes to nationalism. This is especially critical in states like Bihar, where reclaiming lost ground will require connecting deeply with voters on emotional and ideological levels.

A Nationalism of Unity, Not Uniformity

For Congress to mount a credible challenge, it needs to stop ceding ground on the idea of nationalism. It must articulate a nationalism that is firm yet inclusive, proud yet democratic. It must invoke India’s diverse, pluralistic history—not merely as nostalgia, but as a strength for modern governance. And most importantly, it must speak in a voice that commands respect, not just opposition.

The BJP’s narrative isn’t just about defending borders—it’s about stirring hearts. Congress must learn to do both if it wishes to stand toe to toe.

Current Nationalistic Milestones: Summit and Symbolism

Meanwhile, the BJP continues to strengthen its national presence with visible governance events. On a forward-looking note, PM Modi will inaugurate the two-day Rising Northeast Investors’ Summit at 10:30 AM at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This high-profile event will include Chief Ministers from the northeastern states, Union Ministers, foreign diplomats, policymakers, and over 2,000 investors—highlighting the government's focus on inclusive national development, especially in the Northeast.

In South Goa, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari will lay the foundation stone of an observatory tower on the new Zuari Bridge. Envisioned to provide a panoramic view of Goa’s scenic landscape, the project showcases the BJP’s drive to merge infrastructure with national pride.

Conclusion: Bridging the Nationalism Gap

The Congress still has the opportunity to redefine the nationalism debate—but it must move beyond statements and internal discord. It must engage the emotional, historical, and aspirational sentiments of India’s electorate. Nationalism cannot be monopolized—but it can be powerfully molded. For Congress, the challenge is not whether it can reclaim this space—it’s whether it has the will and clarity to do so.