The BJP, which initially displayed enthusiasm and confidence, has encountered a significant downturn according to exit polls. Telangana BJP, once vocal about their impending victory, have notably quieted down. The Lotus Party had clear expectations of winning specific non-BJP constituencies from the outset. Despite other parties boldly asserting that the BJP would struggle to secure even ten seats, the BJP maintained its stance of coming to power.
However, it is evident that the BJP has faced challenges, particularly in identifying strong candidates for various constituencies. As the nomination deadlines approached, the party seemed to await influential leaders from other political groups. This strategy revealed the BJP’s predicament. While leaders from other parties switched sides, the BJP struggled to showcase formidable figures from within. Notable leaders such as Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy, Ravinder, Vivek, and Vijayashanti exited the BJP to join the Congress.
Even before the nomination process, the BJP suffered setbacks, and many of its candidates lacked momentum during the campaign. The party’s reliance on external figures like Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and JP Nadda for public meetings and rallies in Telangana underscored its internal weaknesses. The perception, fueled by Congress’s narrative equating BRS and BJP, led to a significant dent in BJP’s credibility. Consequently, exit polls suggesting the BJP winning no more than ten seats seem plausible, with achieving even that considered a commendable performance.