The streets of Varanasi buzzed with an unusual fervor on the morning of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Union Minister Piyush Goyal, campaigning on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, described the voter turnout as a powerful testament to the people’s desire for a transformative India.
Goyal, who embarked on a morning walk to engage with local voters, observed long queues forming outside polling booths as early as 7 am. “In my 40 years of political experience, I’ve never seen such enthusiasm,” he remarked. “People are not just participating; they are eager to support the vision of India becoming a global powerhouse under Prime Minister Modi.”
As Varanasi prepares for its June 1 election date, Goyal confidently predicted a sweeping victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in both the local constituency and the broader Purvanchal region. He credited this optimism to the tangible development seen in Varanasi over the past decade. “The transformation here is evident, and it resonates with the electorate,” he noted.
Amid the election fervor, the opposition’s INDIA bloc has voiced skepticism about BJP’s ambitious target of securing over 400 seats. Goyal dismissed these claims, suggesting the opposition is rattled by the widespread support for Modi. “Their discomfort is clear; they see how warmly PM Modi is received nationwide, and it troubles them,” he said.
Goyal also questioned the abrupt end to a recent roadshow by opposition leaders Priyanka Gandhi and Dimple Yadav in Varanasi. “It seemed like an admission of defeat,” he commented, hinting at the INDIA bloc’s waning confidence.
On the contentious issue of the Ram Mandir, Goyal defended the BJP’s actions, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of the temple. “The completion of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya fulfills a 500-year-old dream. It’s a testament to our heritage and PM Modi’s respect for the nation’s beliefs,” he asserted, suggesting that the opposition’s stance on the matter reveals their internal conflict.
As Varanasi’s residents prepare to cast their votes, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Goyal expressed his connection to the city, viewing it as a pilgrimage spot. “Since 2013, Varanasi has become like family to PM Modi, and seeing its progress fills me with pride,” he shared.
With the final phase of voting set for June 1 and results to be announced on June 4, the political landscape in Varanasi, and indeed the whole of India, is poised for what could be a historic election outcome.
