Letter.

Letter Published in The National UAE on 13Dec 18The people won in Indian state elections this week

I write in reference to your article India’s ruling BJP suffers setbacks in state elections (December 12): this piece was an interesting read, covering in great detail the recent Indian election results and the threats facing the ruling BJP party in next year’s general elections. This week’s crushing blows should be an eye opener for the BJP, which needs new strategies and messages for the Indian people. There is little point in making promises that cannot be kept. The BJP still holds the majority of India’s state legislatures and so these losses, although disappointing, do not spell the end of its dominance. And the opposition Congress party still lacks credibility for many Indians. However whoever claims victory this week is wrong; this is the people’s victory. It tells political parties that only those who deliver can be assured of continued support. It suggests the BJP could face a real challenge in 2019.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru