Will Subramanian Swamy Hold the Finance Ministry in 2019?
The question of whether Subramanian Swamy will become the Finance Minister if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wins the 2019 Indian general election is heavily debated. Swamy, a controversial and independent-minded individual, has a history that suggests he may not fit into the collective leadership required for the role of a senior minister.
Swamy and the Challenges of Ministry
Subramanian Swamy is known to be an individual-centric leader, and his style of functioning may clash with the need for a Union Minister to work collaboratively. He is described as a “maverick” who prefers to chart his own course and follow his beliefs and opinions vehemently. Such a mindset makes it nearly impossible for him to function in a traditional team-based leadership style.
Swamy’s actions are often seen as bold and innovative. He dislikes being part of a majority, preferring to stand firm on his own principles. This is both his strength and his weakness in the political arena. In a team environment, he can be a disruptive force, much like how he was an unpleasant surprise to the ruling party in the past, and this is a significant risk for the BJP.
Why Subramanian Swamy Might Resign Quickly
Some speculate that if he were to join the cabinet, Swamy might choose to resign after a brief spell due to his refusal to conform to the party’s norms and expectations. His record shows a distinct discomfort in working within the rigid structures of a collective leadership, which is often required for high-level political roles.
As a Member of Parliament from the Bharatiya Janata Party, Swamy’s individualistic nature might pose a significant challenge to his position in the ministry. He is not merely an opposition figure; he is a powerful critic of the party’s mainstream policies and often a thorn in its side. This stark individualism sets him apart from many other political figures and poses a potential threat to the party's cohesion.
The Impact on National Economy and Policy Making
Subramanian Swamy is celebrated for his firm opinions and sharp intellect. However, his desire to impose his own rules and standards on policy making could hamper the functioning of the government. Deliberating and compromising with other stakeholders is an essential part of governance, and Swamy’s rigid stance might make it challenging to reach acceptable compromises.
The role of the Finance Minister in India is particularly crucial as it involves vast responsibilities and a significant influence on the nation’s economy. Swamy’s actions are driven by his firm beliefs and values, which may not always align with the broader consensus necessary for effective statecraft. Therefore, his appointment as the Finance Minister may be seen as a risk that the BJP cannot tolerate.
Possible Outcomes and Strategies
Much of this debate centers around the practicality of Swamy’s role in a government role. Modi’s government has already learned from past experiences to avoid aligning with figures who may disrupt internal harmony. The BJP has consistently shown a preference for young, dynamic leaders who can navigate the complexities of modern governance more effectively.
Hoisting Swamy with the responsibility of running a large and influential department like finance would be a calculated risk that the BJP is not likely to take. Instead, his independent nature and contrarian views could be more effectively utilized in opposition or through strategic advisory roles, away from the ongoing party governance.
Considering Swamy’s advanced age, the party has also moved to progressively retire senior citizens from active politics to make way for new, dynamic leaders. This policy of age-based retirement shows a clear commitment to changing the political landscape in India by fostering younger, more progressive leaders.
In conclusion, while Swamy’s presence in the political arena is invaluable, his appointment as the Finance Minister is unlikely due to his individualism and contrarian views. The BJP’s cautious approach to handling controversial figures ensures that policy continuity and internal coherence remain paramount.
Note: The discussion around Subramanian Swamy's potential role in the future is speculative and based on past behavior and current political trends. The ultimate decision will depend on the BJP leadership's strategic calculus.