Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent visit to Japan and Singapore to attract investment generated significant attention in political and business circles. However, it triggered a parallel discussion within the state’s political corridors as to why Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak did not embark on a foreign tour, while the other Deputy CM, Keshav Prasad Maurya, visited Germany to seek investments for the state.
According to functionaries in the Chief Minister’s Office, the initial plan was for Yogi Adityanath to travel abroad with a team of senior officials. Later, there was a brief consideration that both deputy chief ministers could also be included in overseas investment outreach efforts. But, within hours, it was decided that only Maurya would go for a foreign visit.
Sources indicated that during the planning phase of the trip, Pathak publicly raised concerns over the alleged lathicharge on batuks associated with the Shankaracharya, terming it a “maha paap” (grave sin). He also invited 101 batuks to his residence as a symbolic gesture.
A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that the chief minister chose not to intervene. “Maharaj ji [Yogi Adityanath] has allowed him to continue with his activities. Wo yahin reh kar maha paap dho lein (let him stay here and atone for the grave sin),” the official said, adding that when selecting a representative for an overseas investment mission, “loyalty and organisational background were key considerations”.
The official further remarked that Maurya is viewed as a long-standing organisation man having links with central leadership, though sometimes he takes a different stand on issues, while Pathak is often perceived as an ‘outsider’, relatively new to the party structure. “When a choice had to be made, loyalty and connect was preferred,” the official added.
Bhajan Lal Sharma’s new avatar
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma is emerging in a new avatar.
Last week, he surprised his colleagues when he reprimanded several legislators for poor attendance and for not being ‘aggressive’ in tackling the Opposition. Sharma said that his government was working hard and delivering on its poll promises but it needs MLAs and ministers to put forward the government’s stance much more forcibly, according to those present in the meeting.
The chief minister also remarked that some of the ministers come ill-prepared to answer questions raised by the Opposition and it gives them ammunition to target the government.
Sharma’s new avatar has created a buzz in Rajasthan BJP circles. Grapevine has it that the party high command is taking a hard look at the performance of chief ministers. Sharma’s new assertiveness is being seen in that context.
(Edited by Amrtansh Arora)
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