Rebranding a Legacy

Narendra Modi has assumed the mantle of leadership. The resounding victory for the BJP was a referendum denouncing dynasty rule, stubborn inflation and nepotism.  The year 1991 was a landmark moment in India's economic history. The reforms introduced in 1991 ushered in economic growth and propelled the Indian economy to new heights. It was a significant break away from a dirigiste past. Similarly, 2014 will go down as a watershed year in India's political history. 

The contours of the political landscape have been altered. The shift would be irrevocable if the Congress does not learn from its errors. They must surmount their deep rooted perceptions of the dynasty and build a democratic party. It is time for the Congress party to reinvent itself. Seasoned incumbents must question their, hitherto indubitable, allegiance to the apparent first family. The Congress party has always relied on the dynasty for moral guidance and support. Accomplished leaders within the Congress must understand the sentiments of the people and widen their myopic approach. The modus operandi must change in order for the party to realign itself with the aspirations of today's India which wants to see dynamism and not sycophancy.

There was simply no room for dissent with the Congress. Views which were unpalatable to the ‘family’ could not be articulated. Any organization blooms and thrives on new ideas. Old systems and practices induce lethargy and cause the eventual demise of the organization. No wonder the Congress appears to have crumbled. The frequent displays of obsequiousness within the UPA were fulsome. Party veterans, on many occasions, did not vocalize what seemed to many as a correct choice. Such a manner of functioning precipitated a looming crisis. The recent drubbing was a manifestation of a deeper malaise which has plagued the Congress for a while now.

Sanjay Baru, in his controversial book ‘The Accidental Prime Minister’ draws the readers attention to the lack of autonomy Manmohan Singh had. The dynasty was always at the helm of affairs. Manmohan Singh was fully aware that his views were not supreme.

It is ironical that the Indian National Congress, a party which fought fiercely and advocated independence from the British is not promoting independence within the party. How can the Indian National Congress be guided and nurtured by the views espoused by one family? It is an absurd concept. Modern India no longer relates to the dynasty. From pillar to post, young India is being judged on the basis of merit, be it in the educational sector or the service sector. Inherent talent and capabilities determine the terms of engagement. Meritorious candidates succeed. The May 16th verdict, hopefully, has challenged the dominant perceptions within the Congress. 

The task ahead for the BJP will be a mammoth one but the road has less obstacles since Narendra Modi will not succumb to the compulsions of coalition politics. The people of India have cast their referendum denouncing dynasty rule and policy paralysis. Let us hope that the BJP lives up to the bloated expectations of this country. Meanwhile the Congress must find avenues to reinvigorate the party or it will splinter away. It is time for some introspection.

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