How Is BJP Trying to Strengthen Its Grip on the Tribal Vote Bank in Madhya Pradesh?

Bhopal– The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Madhya Pradesh is strategically working to reinforce its voter base, with a particular focus on the tribal vote bank, which was once a significant stronghold for the Congress.

To achieve this, the BJP has introduced various initiatives to enhance welfare for the Scheduled Tribes and to honor prominent tribal figures. The state has organized numerous events celebrating heroes like Birsa Munda, Tantya Bhil, Rani Durgavati, Raghunath Shah, and Rani Kamlapati. Many institutions are also being renamed in their honor. On November 15, special celebrations are planned for Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary; last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended a similar event in the state.

Scheduled Tribes make up 21 percent of Madhya Pradesh’s electorate, with 59 tribal-dominated blocks and 47 Assembly seats reserved for this group. Both major political parties vie for tribal support, as over 20 percent of the state's 230 Assembly seats are reserved for tribal candidates.

In the previous state elections, BJP won 24 of the 47 seats reserved for tribal candidates and claimed 20 out of 29 non-reserved, tribal-majority seats. Political analysts agree that the tribal vote bank plays a crucial role in state politics. While Congress once held a strong position in this demographic, its influence has waned, providing BJP with an opportunity to solidify its standing. Through continuous programs and announcements targeting tribal communities, the BJP aims to establish a stable, long-term connection with this key voter base.