Why Criticism of Nehru-Gandhi Family from the BJP is Justified – A Reassessment of Sacrifice and Blunder

In the complex narrative of Indian politics, the sacrifices and actions of Indira and Rajiv Gandhi have been a contested topic. Critics from various political factions, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have often questioned the character and motives of the Nehru-Gandhi family. This article aims to reassess the scenarios where these leaders and their policies have been scrutinized.

Blunders Leading to Public Retribution

Indira Gandhi, as the then Prime Minister, had made significant policy decisions that led to public backlash and dire consequences. One notable example is the forced entry of the Indian military into the Golden Temple during the Operation Blue Star in 1984, a significant Sikh shrine. This act, aimed at curbing the activities of Sikh separatists led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, resulted in immense loss of life and communal riots, particularly in the city of Delhi. The incident was highly controversial, with adverse repercussions on her political career and public image. Furthermore, deemed to be a gross violation of human rights, this operation culminated in her assassination by her own Sikh bodyguards on 31st October 1984. Similarly, Rajiv Gandhi’s ultimate assassination on 21st May 1991 by the Tamil militant group LTTE can be partially attributed to his administration's deployment of the Indian military in Sri Lanka, which the LTTE saw as a direct threat to their perceived Tamil sovereignty.

The Context Surrounding the Political Blunders

Both leaders were not without their political blunders. During the state of emergency declared by Indira Gandhi in 1975, civil liberties were curtailed, leading to widespread public discontent, which further deteriorated and resulted in the assassination of her. Similarly, during the tenure of Rajiv Gandhi, several controversial policies were enacted, including the deployment of the Indian military in Sri Lanka, which was perceived as an invasion by the LTTE. In both cases, the public and political sentiments played a significant role in shaping the outcomes of their leadership.

Monuments, Names, and Governance

The frequent naming of public infrastructure and landmarks in honor of Indira and Rajiv Gandhi, such as roads, hospitals, and airports, has invoked criticism regarding a perceived nepotism. For instance, the question arises whether future administrations will continue the trend and name all infrastructure in honor of other Nehru-Gandhi family members. The lack of importance given to non-Nehru-Gandhi leaders in the congress party, such as Narashimha Rao, highlights the family's hegemonic control and exclusionary practices within the party.

BJP's Justifiable Criticism

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been justified in its critique of the congress party and the Nehru-Gandhi family. The congress, under the family's leadership, has often been accused of:

Secularism Misinterpretation: The party has been critiqued for a perceived misinterpretation of secularism, enabling minority communities to thrive at the cost of majority communities. Caste Division: The persistent emphasis on caste divisions, which should have been dismantled post-independence, has been seen as a political ploy for electoral gains. Inclusivity: The neglect of non-Nehru-Gandhi leaders in the party structure and decision-making processes. Adherence to Blunders: Allowing public figures who have committed grave blunders to continue their political careers without facing the consequences.

Furthermore, the public's choice in leadership is not based on the historical sacrifices of political figures but on their current policies and outcomes. This is evident in the selection of other leaders without any direct connection to the Nehru-Gandhi family, such as past and present Prime Ministers and leaders from different backgrounds.

Conclusion

The reevaluation of the Nehru-Gandhi family's actions and the BJP's criticisms should not be seen as mere political posturing but as a reflection of larger societal values and democratic principles. The interplay between sacrifice and blunder in their leadership highlights the need for a more inclusive and accountable political system.