The first phase of the Indian Political league- the Lok Sabha elections has lived up to the expectation of throwing surprise results and proving almost all the exit polls wrong. As the day election rounds progressed, the ground-level buzz clearly showed that the 400 promised mark and demand by BJP would not be realised. However, one was unsure of the rejuvenated rear-guard offensive from I.N.D.I.A. The Ram Mandir agenda seems to have a weak residual impact. The parties must introspect to recognise where they have scored and where they have faltered in reading the voter’s mind. Has it then affect the Brand Image of the leads in Indian Politics?
The political reasons and cause-effect analyses are beyond the realms of this article. However, as we discuss further if certain political maestro brand images have been affected, we will be forced to look at them.
A political leader’s brand image is much more complex than a corporate leader’s or any other understanding of a personal brand. It is a function of the current and archived history of action, reaction, and inaction. It gets impacted through promises made, kept or broken. The alliances and opposition are more prone to the actions of their supporters and rival parties. Today, another element of misinformation and fake messages further complicates the situation. Managing a politician’s brand image in an election year takes work.
Here is a look at the possible impact of electioneering and the results on a politician’s brand after the 2024 General Elections. It synthesises a small population mostly on social media and primarily in urban areas, but I believe it is quite directional and representative of reality.
RAHUL GANDHI. IMAGE ENHANCED
‘Pappu’ has finally delivered. It is immaterial if it is his doing, a coincidence, or if he has finally started listening to his advisors. Though most citizens shudder to think of him as PM, he has bounced back as a political leader. In the process, he assured that Congress has that extra bounce in their stride and is no longer limping. The Results Day press address was also far more balanced and articulate. And if a win does that to a person, the nation should be happy. At his ripe age, he is finally no longer the baccha of politics but someone who demands and gets respect, even if it is limited in its appeal. However, he should avoid taking the mantle of the Leader of the Opposition and use the time to consolidate his gains.
AKHILESH YADAV. SERIOUSLY SHINING
Akhilesh Yadav is another standout politician in the messy political arena. He has captured the spotlight. While his political methods may be subject to criticism and debate, his rise from the ashes and his ability to live up to his father’s legacy cannot be denied. His political journey is a testament to his strategic acumen and his ability to navigate the complex world of Indian politics. He is willing to experiment, adapt and be flexible wherever needed, and that may make him a progressive leader to look at in many eyes.
AMIT SHAH. IMAGE INTACT
Amit Shah, in his unique way, has maintained his strong image. He is perceived as a tough taskmaster, a quality that has undoubtedly contributed to his success. His significant victory and comparison to Sardar Patel as a home minister are testaments to his political prowess. Despite the challenging political landscape, there is little doubt that he will continue to deliver, which should instil confidence in his supporters. Notwithstanding strong rumours and negative explanations of his more than desired interference in UP- a state where BJP performed much below expectation. He still lives unscathed.
MAMTA BANERJEE. NO IMPACT
BJP not gaining any seats in Bengal and TMC having a clean sweep reflects greatly on her political acumen. Her decision to go solo in Bengal is another feather in her cap. The outsider’s view of a very skewed minority appeasement and focus and poll violence, scams or crime somehow does not seem to impact her.
SMRITI IRANI. THE CRUSADER IMAGE INTACT
Even after losing by more than 1.6 lakh votes, Smriti Irani’s image as a goliath-slayer politician remains intact. She has worked for her constituency and was expected to win. Her defeat surprised everyone, including the winner. She has emerged unscathed. The loss is ascribed to low party support in her area and misplaced party confidence.
NARENDRA MODI. DUSTY MIRROR
The 2024 election was supposed to give further strength to PM Narendra Modi. The unprecedented and expected results would have allowed him to make unpopular decisions in favour of the country’s future. This possibility was feared by many voters who voted in blocks and saw it damaging their personal and religious choices. The reduced margin of win in his constituency, too, has impacted his brand image. He is no longer infallible. Modi hai toh bhi Mumkin nahi hai.
However, it is not the image that has taken the beating; it is the mirror with a layer of dust. All he needs to do is wipe it clean with his style of functioning. Now is the time for the next chapter. Refurbishing the image in a different battleground and with a coalition government will not be easy. Only a tough, no-nonsense decision-maker approach would help. Brand Modi needs to act strategically. It has risen from past impacts and hope it will rise again.
SHARAD PAWAR. THE OLD FOX HAS MORE TRICKS
Sharad Pawar is an enigma in Indian politics. He is a survivor and called Chanakya for apparent reasons. He has further strengthened his role and image in Maharashtra and national politics. You cannot count out this kingmaker and a shrewd negotiator influencer.
ADITYANATH YOGI. STANDS STRONG AS EVER
Though it is his state where the major collapse of the party happened, he is not being blamed. His image as a no-nonsense person who has hugely turned over the state law and order situation is intact. Though the loss in Ayodhya- Faizabad arena and loss of seats hurt the agenda, people respect him.
NITISH KUMAR: WHERE IS THE QUESTION OF CHANGE IN BRAND IMAGE.
His image as the Aaya Ram Gayaa Ram of Indian politics and one of the most opportunist people is further strengthened. How he negotiates further with concessions and support at the state and portfolio and power in the centre would define the future image.
CHANDRA BABU NAIDU – GAINED in Brand Image.
In the case of – it is a bit different, and it is time for him to strengthen his political brand further.
OTHERS.
Many leaders live in the reflection of their party performance. But all of them are at a stage where their image is affected by the image of the above stalwarts. A few among them, like Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Shivraj Chouhan, Annamalai, Uddhav Thackeray, Chirag Paswan, etc, have emerged stronger. Leaders like Fadnavis, Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti and Ajit Pawar have seen a bit of erosion. However, you can’t write off anyone. The coming 6-9 months will be exciting, and the political arena will be fascinating to watch.
BLOG/ 039/2024 To connect, send an email, join on Twitter S_kotnala or subscribe to the weekly update.
