Shekhar Gupta argues that for a rapidly declining and self-destructive Congress to rejuvenate, change should first come from the top, i,.e., the Gandhi family.
It is a touchingly funny spectacle, where every senior leader wants to be loved like Atal Bihari Vajpayee, but is beginning to speak the language of Modi of 2007, if not 2002.
Only two leaders have the strength, appeal & political wherewithal to break the two-decade stalemate in Indian politics with a big new idea: Rahul Gandhi and Narendra Modi.
BJP believes the CAG report on coal gives them their 2012 Bofors moment. But they also believe that a parliamentary discussion will dilute their case against Congress.
In its UP campaign, BJP has displayed all the weaknesses usually chronic to Congress: lack of a clear CM candidate, infighting, absence of a grassroots organisation & agenda.
The ordinance-mania is back in fashion. The recourse to amending the law or writing fresh legislation is a tempting escape for politicians from constitutional checks and balances.
Opposition is out of Parliament almost permanently, as was the case in the last months of Rajiv Gandhi's government. The two leading parties are not even on talking terms any more.
An ironical aspect of our reform's history has been opposition from within, stemming from unevolved intellect, inter-corporate lobbying or a clash of political ambitions.
As voters become more prosperous, acquire a greater stake in their lives and become more aware, they are rising above petty concerns, hatreds and prejudices when making an electoral choice.
It may be wishful thinking but this campaign in Gujarat may force both BJP and Congress towards the middle, with themes of governance, economic reform and better life.
Mini deal will likely see no cut in 10% baseline tariff on Indian exports announced by Trump on 2 April, it is learnt, but additional 26% tariffs are set to be reduced.
India-Russia JV is also racing to deliver 7,000 more AK-203 assault rifles by 15 Aug. These are currently being made with 50% indigenisation and this will surge to 100% by 31 December.
Public, loud, upfront, filled with impropriety and high praise sometimes laced with insults. This is what we call Trumplomacy. But the larger objective is the same: American supremacy.
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