The Loksabha 2024 Election Results: An Analysis Through the Kubler-Ross Model

Article written/published on 4th June 2024 @ 11.00 am. (when election trends were still coming in)

The Loksabha 2024 Election Results: An Analysis Through the Kubler-Ross Model

#Election2024 #India2024 #Loksabha2024 #Media #Seechange #Seechangeonline #Corporatesage #FBA #Leadership #Change

As the Loksabha 2024 election results are unveiled this morning, the political landscape of India is witnessing a myriad of reactions from different parties. Interestingly, these reactions can be effectively analyzed through the lens of the Kubler-Ross model, originally developed to understand the emotional journey of individuals facing terminal illness. This model, also known as the Five Stages of Grief, includes Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance. Let's explore how the various political parties' responses align with these stages.

1. Denial

For some parties, especially those who had high hopes but faced unexpected defeat, the initial reaction is denial. These parties might refuse to acknowledge the results, instead, clinging to the hope that there might have been some mistake in the counting process or that early leads are not indicative of the final outcome.

Example: A party spokesperson might say, "It's too early to comment on the results. We believe that the final counts will reflect our expected performance." This stage is characterized by a refusal to accept reality, often accompanied by claims of discrepancies or demands for recounts.

2. Anger

As the results become irrefutable, the next stage is anger. Parties that performed poorly might lash out at various targets, including the election commission, media, or even their own party leadership. This anger is a manifestation of the frustration and helplessness they feel in the face of their loss.

Example: Statements like, "The election was rigged," or "The media was biased against us," are common. This anger can also be directed internally, with infighting and blame games emerging within the party ranks.

3. Bargaining

In the bargaining stage, parties begin to seek ways to mitigate the damage. This might involve forming coalitions, seeking alliances, or making public appeals to their voter base for continued support. The bargaining phase is marked by strategic recalibrations and attempts to salvage political influence.

Example: A party leader might declare, "We are open to forming a coalition to ensure a stable government," or, "We will work harder to address the issues that matter to the voters." This stage is about finding ways to regain some control over the situation.

4. Depression

When bargaining fails or the reality of the situation sets in fully, depression can follow. This is a period of reflection and internal assessment, where parties may publicly acknowledge their defeat and privately grapple with the implications for their future.

Example: Leaders might express sentiments such as, "We need to understand where we went wrong," or, "This is a dark day for our party." During this phase, there is often a somber tone as the party contemplates its path forward.

5. Acceptance

Finally, acceptance emerges. Parties that reach this stage begin to accept the election results and start planning for the future. They focus on rebuilding, strategizing for upcoming elections, and reconnecting with their base. Acceptance is marked by a pragmatic approach to the new political reality.

Example: Statements like, "We respect the will of the people and will work harder for the next election," or, "We will support the new government in initiatives that benefit the country," indicate that the party is ready to move forward.

Conclusion

The reactions of political parties to the Loksabha 2024 election results can be comprehensively understood through the Kubler-Ross model. This framework not only provides insight into the emotional and strategic responses of these parties but also highlights the universal nature of dealing with significant change and loss. As the dust settles, the varied responses will ultimately shape the political discourse and direction of the country, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of India's democratic fabric.

Heartfully yours,

Prakash Seshadri a.k.a. Corporate Sage

India's Trusted "Family Business Advisor"