First Session of 18th Lok Sabha Disappoints Modi
By Sushil Kutty
The 18th Lok Sabha’s inaugural session has been a significant letdown for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi now addresses Modi without his official title, while Modi refers to Gandhi as ‘Balak Buddhi,’ highlighting an unusual mutual disrespect. If ‘Sansad TV’ was a hit, children might ironically learn about respect in India’s Parliament. Modi’s continuing disdain for Rahul Gandhi is apparent since Modi vowed for a ‘Congress Mukt Bharat’ in his first term but has yet to achieve it.
Rahul Gandhi, as Leader of the Opposition (LoP), presents a new challenge for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Unlike his predecessor Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, who failed to make a lasting impact and has since faded into obscurity, Gandhi commands a stronger presence. His stature is bolstered by family legacy, with Sonia and Priyanka Gandhi supporting him visibly during his initial speech as LoP.
Modi’s aspirations for a ‘Congress Mukt Bharat’ have crumbled, evidenced by the fading use of the slogan even among BJP loyalists. The Grand Old Party’s enduring resilience has thwarted Modi’s plans, demonstrating its capacity to bounce back from setbacks.
During his ‘Motion of Thanks’ speech, Modi hinted at plans to dismantle the entrenched ‘ecosystem’ within India’s bureaucratic and legal frameworks, a task he did not address in his first two terms. His bold rhetoric, however, appears disconnected from his actual capacity to effect change, especially given his perceived vulnerability and weakening grip on power.
Modi’s majority is no longer as overwhelming, and his international charm offensive has waned. In this precarious situation, Modi’s current promises risk being viewed as hollow, a stark contrast to his earlier, more confident years in office.
As Modi confronts a challenging political landscape, questions loom about his ability to deliver on his ambitions or whether his declarations are mere bluster. The Prime Minister, once basked in the glow of international admiration, now faces a much sterner test on home soil.
Original Story https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/07/08/modis-stature-as-vishwaguru-has-diminished-after-duel-with-rahul-gandhi/
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