Bharatiya Janata Party’s Foundation Day – A Political Milestone in India’s Democratic Journey
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has emerged as one of the most influential political parties in India’s post-independence history. Celebrated every year on April 6th, BJP’s Foundation Day is a moment to reflect on its journey, ideologies, growth, and contributions to Indian politics and society. On this significant day in 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the party’s workers and saluted those who dedicated their lives to strengthening the party. He also called it a day that reflects the BJP’s commitment to India’s progress.
This essay delves into the history, evolution, achievements, criticisms, and future of the BJP while reflecting on the importance of Foundation Day in reaffirming its values.
The Birth of the Bharatiya Janata Party
The BJP was founded on April 6, 1980, after the collapse of the Janata Party alliance. The ideological roots of the BJP lie in the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, founded in 1951 by Syama Prasad Mukherjee. While the Jana Sangh was merged into the Janata Party during the post-Emergency period, internal differences on issues such as Hindutva led to the formation of a new party — the BJP.
The party was built on the philosophy of “Integral Humanism”, developed by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay, which emphasized harmony between the individual, society, and nature.
Initial Struggles and Slow Rise
In its initial years, the BJP struggled to gain traction among the Indian electorate. In the 1984 general elections, held soon after the assassination of Indira Gandhi, BJP won only 2 seats in the Lok Sabha.
However, the party began gaining momentum in the late 1980s due to its association with the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, spearheaded by L.K. Advani. The movement for building a Ram temple in Ayodhya galvanized a significant section of the Hindu population and catapulted the BJP into national prominence.
Forming the Government – A New Chapter Begins
By the 1990s, the BJP emerged as a formidable political force. It formed a short-lived government in 1996 under Atal Bihari Vajpayee, followed by a more stable alliance in 1998, and again in 1999 under the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
Under Vajpayee’s leadership, India saw advancements in infrastructure, communication, and nuclear capability. His statesman-like approach also won praise even from critics.
The Modi Era – Transformation of BJP and Indian Politics
The most transformative phase for the BJP came in 2014, when Narendra Modi was projected as the prime ministerial candidate. His strong governance record in Gujarat, coupled with promises of development (“Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas“), appealed to voters across the spectrum.
In 2014, BJP secured a historic majority, winning 282 seats, and formed a government without coalition support. In 2019, it repeated the feat with an even stronger mandate (303 seats), showcasing the party’s widespread appeal.
Landmark Achievements Under BJP Rule
Under Narendra Modi’s leadership, the BJP-led government undertook several ambitious reforms and policies:
- Digital India Mission – Promoting technology-based governance and internet penetration.
- Ujjwala Yojana – Providing free LPG gas connections to rural women, ensuring cleaner cooking methods.
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan – Nationwide cleanliness drive, including construction of toilets.
- Make in India – Encouraging manufacturing and job creation.
- Startup India – Fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
- GST Implementation – A unified tax system for ease of doing business.
- Article 370 Abrogation – Removing special status from Jammu and Kashmir.
- Ram Mandir Verdict – Culmination of decades-long legal and social movement.
Foundation Day Message by Prime Minister Modi (2025)
On April 6, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a heartfelt message:
“I salute every worker who dedicated themselves to strengthening the BJP. Our karyakartas (party workers) are the backbone of the party. On this important day, we renew our resolve to serve India with dedication and commitment.”
He emphasized that BJP’s journey is not just political but a national movement toward progress and integrity. He acknowledged the role of grassroots workers and leaders who stood firm in the face of adversity.
Karyakartas – The Strength of BJP
One of the most unique features of the BJP is its vast and disciplined karyakarta network (party workers). These are individuals who work at the ground level, conducting outreach programs, organizing campaigns, and conveying the party’s vision to the people.
Modi often says that BJP is not run by leaders from above, but by tireless workers at the grassroots. From booth-level workers to national leaders, there’s a culture of hard work and ideological commitment.
Criticisms and Controversies
Despite its achievements, the BJP has not been free from criticism:
- Allegations of promoting religious polarization, especially with issues like cow vigilantism and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
- Concerns over freedom of the press and the arrest of dissenting voices.
- Farm laws protests – Massive agitation by farmers led to a rollback of controversial laws.
- Economic issues such as unemployment, rising prices, and wealth disparity have also been points of concern.
- Accusations of weakening democratic institutions and centralizing power in the Prime Minister’s Office.
These criticisms have been raised by opposition parties, international bodies, and independent analysts.
BJP’s Presence in Southern India – The Tamil Nadu Factor
In Tamil Nadu, BJP’s journey has been slower, largely due to the strong presence of Dravidian parties like DMK and AIADMK. However, with leaders like K. Annamalai, the BJP is working hard to build its base.
Although it hasn’t made large electoral gains yet, the party is gradually establishing itself through issue-based politics, youth outreach, and alliance strategies.
Global Impact of BJP’s Rise
BJP’s dominance has not only reshaped India’s internal politics but also influenced its foreign policy. Under Modi, India has taken a more assertive stand on international platforms like the G20, BRICS, and the United Nations.
India’s relationships with countries like the US, Japan, Israel, and France have strengthened. At the same time, the party’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) has aimed to reduce dependence on foreign economies.
Looking Ahead – The Future of BJP
As BJP celebrates its 45th Foundation Day in 2025, questions about its future direction are crucial:
- Will it maintain its political dominance in upcoming elections?
- How will it handle rising opposition unity?
- Can it balance its ideological core with inclusive governance?
- Will it strengthen federalism and democratic institutions?
These questions will shape the next phase of Indian politics.
Conclusion
The BJP’s journey from a marginal player to the world’s largest political party is both remarkable and complex. With each Foundation Day, the party not only celebrates its past but recommits itself to its future vision.
Prime Minister Modi’s message on this day reinforces the idea that BJP is not just an electoral machine but a movement with a mission — a mission to build a strong, secure, and prosperous India.
Whether one supports or opposes the BJP, its impact on India’s socio-political fabric is undeniable. As the nation progresses, the role of BJP and its karyakartas will continue to be central in shaping India’s democratic and developmental trajectory.
