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Why we vote the way we do

I think of the BJP as being only a sort-of ideological party because its ideology is expressed negatively

What does not affect the individual directly and tangibly is not easy to pinpoint as being a significant factor when exercising franchise. Photo: Reuters
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What does not affect the individual directly and tangibly is not easy to pinpoint as being a significant factor when exercising franchise. Photo: Reuters

Aakar Patel
The Indian attack on Pakistan is being bandied about as the thing that will swing the election in favour of the prime minister. The nation, or large parts of it, was dismayed by the pusillanimity that was shown by earlier governments against Islamabad and its puppets. The airstrike at Balakot has changed that and it will redound to the credit of the strong leader. This is the thinking.

To me it will be interesting if this is the case and if, after the election is won, we can see some data that conclusively shows that for most, or many, people this