BJP's Awkward Dance: Mamata Banerjee's Reticence and Strategic Makeover
In the aftermath of the election, Mamata Banerjee is leading a strategic makeover. While she continues her mission to reinvent herself with the help of political strategist Prashant Kishore, the BJP leadership is increasingly exasperated by her newfound reticence. This shift in communication strategy is highlighted in today's Bartaman.
BJP in Severe Awe of a Reticent Mamata
According to a Friday meeting, BJP Central Joint General Secretary Organization Shiva Prakash emphasized that Mamata's silence is detrimental to their interests. Prakash stressed, 'Mamata needs to speak. The more Mamata will speak the more BJP will be benefitted.' This statement reflects the BJP's nervousness and highlights their need for more active engagement from Mamata Banerjee.
To force Mamata out of her shell, Shiva Prakash directed the party's state leadership to launch more aggressive agitations. He believes that increased agitation will compel her to speak out, thereby benefiting the BJP.
Mythology, Social Media, and Political U-turns
Prashant Kishore, Mamata’s new political strategist, has come up with creative ways to present her through social media. In a novel approach, he has used WhatsApp and Facebook to organize Jholanan (swings), Janmashtami style, showcasing Mamata Bannerji's development achievements.
The Our Pride Mamata Facebook page features replicas of development projects such as flyovers, buildings, factories, and ecological systems, all depicted in the background of Radha-Krishna images. This campaign aims to soften Mamata's image from being aggressive and confrontational to more constructive and inclusive.
The Strategic Move: Reframing the Narrative
Action differently brings a new dimension to the TMC party's strategy. The campaign aims to subtly remind the public about Mamata's political contributions, especially her support for Atal Bihari Vajpayee. A cartoon on the page depicts Mamata expressing respect to Vajpayee and his mother, suggesting a more collaborative relationship.
To further this, TMC MLAs have been instructed to visit constituents' houses. Interestingly, some names forwarded by PK’s office are of BJP workers, forcing many BJP supporters to engage with TMC leaders at their residences—a break from the typical West Bengal political culture.
Outcome and Perception
While the makeup is real, its impact will be carefully observed. For now, it has become a defining feature of Didi's and her party's strategy. However, time will tell whether this strategic shift will pay off in the coming months.
Beyond the immediate political maneuverings, this makeover is a significant move in the broader political landscape of West Bengal. It signals a potential willingness to engage more constructively and could influence public perception and electoral outcomes.