Only Modi can take on the role of PM | Deve Gowda
Introduction
In the realm of Indian politics, the question of leadership is often a subject of extensive debate and analysis. As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections loom large, the topic of who is capable of leading the country has become a matter of great significance. One individual who has emerged as a prominent figure in this discussion is Prime Minister Narendra Modi. H.D. Deve Gowda, the former Prime Minister of India, recently made a bold statement, asserting that only Modi can shoulder the task of serving as the Prime Minister for a third term. In this article, we delve into the nuances of Gowda’s statement and explore the reasons behind his assertion.
The Background of H.D. Deve Gowda
Before we delve into Gowda’s statement, it is imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of his background and political career. H.D. Deve Gowda, a veteran politician, served as the 11th Prime Minister of India from 1996 to 1997. He hails from the state of Karnataka and has been an influential figure in the state’s political landscape for several decades. Gowda has been associated with the Janata Dal (Secular) party and has played a pivotal role in shaping the party’s ideology and strategy.
Deve Gowda’s Campaigning in Karnataka
Despite not being a candidate in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, H.D. Deve Gowda has been actively involved in campaigning for the BJP-led NDA candidates in Karnataka. He has been touring various constituencies in the state, including Bengaluru Rural, Tumkur, Chikamagalur, Mysore, and Chikkaballapur. With his extensive support base in these regions, Gowda’s presence has been instrumental in garnering support for the NDA candidates.
Gowda’s Assertion: Only Modi Can Lead the Country
In a recent interview, H.D. Deve Gowda made a striking statement, proclaiming that only Narendra Modi is capable of shouldering the responsibility of serving as the Prime Minister for a third term. This assertion has garnered significant attention and has sparked a spirited debate among political pundits and analysts. Let us delve deeper into the rationale behind Gowda’s belief.
The Strength of Narendra Modi’s Leadership
Gowda’s assertion stems from his perception of Narendra Modi’s leadership qualities and track record. He believes that Modi has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills during his tenure as the Prime Minister. Modi’s ability to connect with the masses, his charisma, and his unwavering determination have earned him widespread popularity and admiration. Furthermore, Gowda commends Modi’s efforts in implementing various developmental initiatives and policies that have positively impacted the country.
The JD(S)-BJP Alliance and its Success
One aspect that strengthens Gowda’s belief in Modi’s leadership is the successful alliance between the Janata Dal (Secular) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Gowda asserts that this alliance has been fruitful not only for the Lok Sabha elections but also for the Assembly elections. He compares this alliance to the previous one with the Congress in 2019, highlighting the challenges faced by the JD(S) in that partnership. According to Gowda, the JD(S)-BJP alliance has been working seamlessly, paving the way for future collaborations.
Opposition Criticism and Deve Gowda’s Response
The assertion made by H.D. Deve Gowda has not gone without criticism, particularly from leaders of the Congress party in Karnataka. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar have expressed concerns about the long-term repercussions of the JD(S)-BJP alliance. In response, Gowda dismisses their apprehensions, accusing them of misusing the state’s resources to support Congress in other states. He also highlights the success of the BJP in the previous Telangana elections, where contractors from Karnataka were deployed and contributed to the party’s victory.
Rahul Gandhi’s Opinion and Gowda’s Silence
When questioned about Rahul Gandhi’s recent statement that there is no Modi wave and that the BJP will not secure more than 150 seats in the country, Gowda chooses not to comment. He refers to Pinarayi Vijayan’s statement, where the Kerala Chief Minister referred to Rahul Gandhi as an “Amul Baby” in response to veteran leader V.S. Achuthanandan’s remarks. This silence speaks volumes about Gowda’s stance on the matter.
Congress Guarantees vs. Modi-Gowda Leadership
Gowda believes that the Congress party’s guarantees have failed to resonate with the voters in the past. Drawing comparisons to the Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh elections, he asserts that the promises made by the Congress did not translate into electoral success. In contrast, he applauds the leadership of Modi and Kumaraswamy, citing their initiatives such as farm loan waivers and water rights programs as evidence of their commitment to the people.
Addressing State-Specific Issues as an NDA Partner
One concern often raised in Karnataka is the failure of national parties to address state-specific issues, such as the Cauvery water dispute. Gowda believes that as an NDA partner, the Janata Dal (Secular) will be able to effectively address these concerns. He mentions his previous discussions with Prime Minister Modi and the Jal Shakti Minister regarding the drinking water problem in Bangalore city. Gowda is confident that the JD(S) will work towards resolving the Cauvery water issue in collaboration with the BJP.
The Journey of an Alliance: Reflections on the Past
As the conversation shifts to the political landscape of the past, Gowda reminisces about his tenure as the Prime Minister in 1996, when he led an alliance of 13 parties. He recalls the circumstances that led to his appointment and the challenges faced during his term. Gowda emphasizes the importance of a united front in countering the opposition and highlights the need for strong leadership, which he believes Modi possesses.
Conclusion
H.D. Deve Gowda’s statement that only Narendra Modi can shoulder the task of serving as the Prime Minister for a third term has sparked intense debate and analysis. Gowda’s belief in Modi’s leadership stems from his track record, charisma, and ability to connect with the masses. The success of the JD(S)-BJP alliance further strengthens his conviction. While critics have voiced their concerns, Gowda remains steadfast in his opinion. As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach, the question of who can lead India becomes increasingly significant, and Gowda’s statement adds another dimension to the discourse.
