THE WAY AHEAD FOR THE BJP IN BENGAL ... 7

THE WAY AHEAD FOR THE BJP IN BENGAL ... 7

BJP leaders ought to lead by sheer dint of character. Their bid to gain popular support by appearing too often online is bound to be enervating and counterproductive in the long run. The sheer force of character that we today see in Suvendu Adhikari will wane overtime unless he refrains from Modi-like constant speeches with changing circumstance and occasion ruining personality, self-belief, idealism and oratorical performance, leave aside real work done. The country needs a Netaji-like commitment to work, and talk following work done, as Sri Ramakrishna has advised. Much talk and little deliverance will not be in the interests of the common man nor conducive to securing continuous electoral victory as the Chief Minister has promised. 

The brave perform more than they preach. Hence, let the Cabinet in all good intent speak less and work more. Giving multiple bites before the camera a day may become a film star but not a minister. After all running a ministry is not a fashion show. This must be clearly understood. However, good communication is part and parcel of democratic governance, especially in these days of online interaction, but the frequency of facing the camera must be actuated by such requirements and not to increase one's fan base or for staying in the limelight at any cost. 

Deeds speak more than words. Misdeeds lost Mamata Bannerjee her seat. Good deeds will continue to secure the BJP's. Let this be kept in mind. 

As Sri Ramakrishna said to his nephew Hridayram, "The problem with you, you know, Hridu, is that you speak before doing a thing. A little bit of spiritual ecstasy you've had and you are raising a storm over it. But look at me. How many such experiences I have daily, yet I utter not a word about them." 

Fanfare is frothy and, like a bubble bursts, it will disappear in no time. Cabinet Minister of much television and online appearance, make a note of it. People are watching. You will soon be questioned on performance and credibility before criticism starts pouring in. Do not trust fleeting public adulation. Their loyalty is little, memory short, changeability much and expectation sky-high. 

Written by Sugata Bose