What is the remedy, what is the supplication in such an atmosphere? When the wrongdoer himself inquires about the events?
The members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Haryana are filled with enthusiasm following the party’s impressive performance in the assembly elections in some states, fostering renewed hope. They believe that the party is poised for a hat-trick victory in Haryana, creating historical significance with a resounding triumph in the upcoming assembly elections.
On the other hand, opposition parties, particularly the Congress, are bewildered and grappling with understanding the unexpected turn of events. They find themselves questioning what transpired, why it unfolded the way it did, and how it came to pass. A meeting with Chief Minister Manohar Lal before the election results revealed his spontaneous optimism.
In our conversation, he confidently asserted that the BJP would achieve remarkable success in the election states, securing a return to power. Much of his prediction proved accurate. Union Minister Krishnapal Gurjar, a prominent campaigner for the BJP, echoed similar sentiments about the electoral climate, stating that the BJP would establish governments in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
This prediction also materialized. When questioned about it post-election, Gurjar explained that he had attended a wedding of an IAS officer in Gurgaon and many Congress members were present. In a typical response following an opposition defeat, Congress members attributed their loss to alleged tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Gurjar dismissed these claims, asserting that he had anticipated the election results and had informed the party leadership in advance.
What fueled this confidence? Gurjar cited his interactions with the public during the election campaign in these three states, where he claimed to have accurately gauged the sentiments of the voters.
Had acquainted myself with the inside narrative. When interacting with people, the prevailing sentiment indicated that the BJP would secure victory here. Even though there were doubts among many BJP members about Chhattisgarh’s prospects, I confidently reassured everyone that the predictions would be proven wrong, and a BJP government would be formed.
Rajya Sabha MP Karthik Sharma asserts that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s charisma has captivated the people of the country. He predicts that the BJP will surpass 400 seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, setting another record for a massive victory. According to him, Congress fails to comprehend that the dynamics of Indian politics shifted after 2014, and people now appreciate strong and decisive leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi embodies the qualities that citizens desire in their ruler, administrator, and leader.
Following the impressive victories in these states, discussions have emerged about the possibility of holding Haryana Assembly elections concurrently with the Lok Sabha elections. There is speculation that if Haryana elections do not coincide with the Lok Sabha polls, they might take place shortly after. The BJP expresses confidence that these assembly elections have debunked misconceptions about the public’s understanding, and the party anticipates no hurdles in forming the government in the Lok Sabha elections. Consequently, there’s a proposal to promptly conduct elections in Haryana after the formation of the government at the Centre.
It’s a moment not to be missed, akin to washing one’s hands in the flowing Ganga. However, the election results, which defy projections, underscore the uniqueness of this era where only those who possess the ability to adapt truly thrive.
The changing system While some individuals boast about changing the system, others covertly bring about systemic transformations without seeking credit. A notable example is the Information and Public Relations Department of Haryana. Previously, there used to be contention over the appointment of District Public Relations Officers (DPROs), who aspired to engage in fieldwork.
However, the scenario has evolved. Many field personnel now aspire to work at the headquarters, engaging in manipulative practices. This shift is attributed to various factors, including a shortage of staff in the field despite a manifold increase in workload. The staff complement is less than half of the sanctioned posts, with a significant portion being contract-based and often recommended by politicians and influential figures.
Getting work done from these staff members is akin to putting a camel in a train – a risky endeavor that sensible individuals tend to avoid. The government emphasizes the Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra for developmental promotion, generating significant noise.
There is a strong emphasis on creating high-quality videos and photos during this journey, with specific instructions to share them on social media. The crucial question arises: who will be responsible for executing this task? The existing staff is already in short supply, and among them, many have not updated their skills to adapt to the changing times. Some are inadequate and inexperienced in this particular field. This poses a significant challenge.
The Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra is not a brief program; it spans several days, attracting visits from ministers and district officials who all desire comprehensive media coverage. District Commissioners (DCs) conduct meetings and programs, desiring extensive coverage as well. Additionally, in many districts, multiple IAS officers are engaged, and they also aspire to actively participate in this initiative, ensuring they are not left behind in the noble cause of promotion. Consequently, they urge the staff of the District Information and Public Relations Department, emphasizing zero tolerance for any negligence in coverage.
The workload on field workers has reached an overwhelming level, leading many to feel incapable of handling the pressure due to resource constraints. Consequently, these individuals have forsaken the perceived comfort of fieldwork, now seeking opportunities and recognition in the challenging and arid environment of the headquarters. They are eager to make this transition, often relying on recommendations for support.
Some individuals are engaged in the pursuit of power and authority, while others are striving to secure their sustenance and livelihood.
Life, essentially, is synonymous with diligent and earnest effort; Much like a bird tirelessly roams throughout the day in search of nourishment.
The question arises: who determines the destiny of another, when the key to radiance lies in our own efforts and endeavors.
The author is a consulting editor at ITV Network