The signals are unmistakable. There is a definite attempt to abandon the image of a ruthless, arrogant and vindictive Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi. The new Narendra Modi, fresh from a morale-boosting victory in the Assembly elections that can have an impact on the politics of the country is benevolent, forgiving and respectful with a great sense of tolerance for dissent. Be it the compulsions of his political ambitions at the national level or the need for presenting a more politically acceptable face to people across the country and the world over, Narendra Modi appears to be on a massive image makeover drive. He is not only making efforts to be humble, but also preaching humility to the BJP workers.
His first speech after the victory on Monday asking party workers to ensure celebrations were not brazen or impudent, is an indication of this. On Tuesday, after being elected as the leader of the BJP State Legislative Party Mr Modi asked his workers to be more forgiving and compassionate towards those who showed divergent views in the party. “If some people or the media have been unnecessarily harsh and contemptible in their views, it is because of our failure to make them more conscious about ourselves.” He also claimed that he believed from that the BJP was one “big family”in which everyone had a role and responsibility.
Olive branch
He also asked the workers to be careful that the pillars of Constitution and democracy are not harmed. If Mr Modi was holding out an olive branch to the dissidents, they are not trusting the new subdued Modi. “How can one expect a ruthless person like Modi to change overnight. He is into role playing and his interest is only to gain in stature at the national level and put up an image of being forgiving and large hearted,” a senior leader who broke his ties with the BJP claimed.
BJP national vice-president Venkaiah Naidu told Deccan Herald that this definitely is the new Modi. The ‘historic win’ against all odds has chastened Narendra Modi. “He has become politically more mature and more understanding. The massive victory against all odds has made him more restrained,” Mr Naidu said. Party general secretary Vijay Rupani, however, claimed that Narendra Modi had always been very dignified and responsive and this is not an image makeover. “He has always been sensitive, emotive person who has always kept his stature high. He has been able to digest the poison spewed on him for months together. This is the original Modi and the change that is being seen is only to the people. For us it is the Modi of the old.”Modi has a way with words, with few across the country who can match his rich repertoire but only his actions in the days to come will prove if there is a real change.