New Delhi, June 27: Sharmistha Mukherjee, daughter of former President Pranab Mukherjee and a former Congress leader, recently asserted in an article that her late father believed Narendra Modi was the first Indian Prime Minister to receive a direct mandate from the public. She noted that prior to Modi, no Prime Minister, from Nehru to Manmohan Singh, was directly elected by the populace. Instead, they were chosen by their parties or through coalition dynamics post-election.
Sharmistha recalled an interesting remark made by her father regarding Modi’s significant victory in 2014 when he was the 13th President of India. Despite their differing political ideologies, the two shared a cordial relationship, exemplifying true democratic values.
After the election results were announced, Modi visited Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. During their conversation, Pranab inquired about the election results. Modi explained that after three decades, a political party had achieved a full majority. Pranab, in his characteristic style, asked, “And what else?” When Modi remained silent, Pranab elaborated that the 2014 Lok Sabha election was unique in history, as it introduced a new face as the Prime Ministerial candidate.
According to the article, the broad public support for the BJP was not just for the party but also represented a clear mandate for Modi as Prime Minister. Sharmistha emphasized that in previous elections, the Prime Ministerial candidate was either not formally announced or selected by elected MPs or coalition partners after the elections.
She pointed out that former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh was not a popular leader and was chosen for the role by then-Congress President Sonia Gandhi. Additionally, she mentioned that P.V. Narasimha Rao and H.D. Deve Gowda were not members of Parliament when they became Prime Ministers. She argued that the 2014 election marked a shift in Indian politics, where voters granted Modi a mandate akin to a presidential system.
Sharmistha noted that prior to 2014, Modi was relatively new to national politics, having established his identity as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. She described his first Lok Sabha election as unprecedented, highlighting that it was the first time someone became Prime Minister directly after being elected as an MP. She also referenced the iconic image of Modi bowing on the steps of Parliament, which resonated with millions of Indians.
She explained that winning elections is a complex process influenced by multiple factors. The BJP’s strong grassroots organization, strategies to engage various castes and communities, and the ability to quickly identify and rectify mistakes are key elements that have made it a formidable electoral force.
However, she acknowledged that Modi’s image is perhaps the BJP’s strongest asset. Many see him as a robust leader who has risen through merit and hard work, contrasting with the dynastic politics of the Congress and regional parties. In many ways, Modi has become synonymous with the BJP.
Sharmistha shared insights from conversations with friends in West Bengal regarding recent assembly elections. While her relatives remain staunch Congress supporters, most of her friends voted for the BJP. She often reminded them that Modi was not a candidate in the assembly elections, to which they replied, “It’s all the same.”
She concluded that Modi is not only the longest-serving elected Prime Minister of India but also one of the strongest since independence. He has provided a relatively stable government, free from the constraints of coalition politics.
Sharmistha remarked, “While some may disagree with his policies or methods, it is normal in a democracy. However, no one can deny his charisma or his connection with voters as an inspiration for an ‘aspirational India.’ This was evident in both 2019 and 2024. Whether you like Modi or not, you cannot ignore ‘Brand Modi.’ With great power comes great responsibility. As a citizen, I hope he honors this massive mandate from the people and elevates our country to new heights.”
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