Why Subramanian Swamy Is Not Considered a Prime Ministerial Candidate
Subramanian Swamy, a seasoned politician with a wealth of experience in various fields, has often been seen as a potential Prime Ministerial candidate. However, several factors contribute to his absence in the race for the top office in India. This article explores the reasons behind why he is not the Prime Minister of India today and delves into the implications of his role within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Opportunity Lost and Lost Trust
The missed opportunity to have Swamy as the Prime Minister is often felt as a severe loss to the nation. Critics argue that he would have made a much better leader than the current incumbent, Narendra Modi. Known for his diverse experience and mature decision-making, Swamy's presence in such a position could have significantly benefited the country. His potential was not fully realized, and the maybes of a future campaign often remain mere speculations. The proposed scenario of Swamy assuming office in two years or Narendra Modi stepping down after the 24th birthday is a testament to the unfulfilled possibilities within the current political landscape.
A Dangerous Figure in Politics
Swamy's public persona is marked by his opposition to the Nehru-Gandhi clan, which has led to his alignment with the BJP. However, his staunch criticism of the BJP and its economic policies contradicts his BJP membership. He is described as a dangerous personality due to his unwillingness to work under authority and his ability to critique high-ranking party members. The BJP's strategic choice to retain Swamy within the party framework is viewed as a means of managing his untamed critique rather than dismissing him entirely.
His Knowledge and Flaws
Economic expertise and a clear understanding of policy, however, are areas where Swamy's knowledge is recognized. But his public statements often appear premature and inappropriate, sometimes veering away from factual realities. His impulsive remarks and latter-day expressions of disappointment over not receiving a Ministry, particularly the Finance Ministry, further highlight his unpredictable nature. The BJP's decision to shield him from taking offense at mismatches and instead keep him within the party reflects a strategic choice to harness his skills and criticisms constructively.
The Concept of PM Candidate
Another reason for Subramanian Swamy's non-ability to become the Prime Minister lies in the concept of a "Prime Minister candidate." This term is often used by political parties to promote their leadership candidate during an election campaign, but it holds no formal weight after the election. In a parliamentary democracy, the people elect their representatives, and those representatives then choose their leader. Thus, even if a candidate loses the election, his party can still form the government with a different leader.
Historical Context and Political Dynamics
Historically, Swamy led a political party for an extended period, yet it failed to gain substantial popular support. His comments suggest that he should have left the Janata party earlier, perhaps in 1980, with the Jan Sangh group, to enhance his political prospects. Instead, he missed multiple opportunities, leading to his current position. The political field in the BJP is competitive, with prominent figures like Adityanath and Amit Shah eagerly awaiting their turn to lead, and even Narendra Modi's own tenure as an MP is questionable due to his age.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the various reasons why Subramanian Swamy is not the Prime Minister of India today range from his political choices and public persona to historical and personal factors. The future of Indian leadership remains uncertain, and the political landscape continues to evolve based on these complex dynamics.