NEW DELHI: In a lively exchange in the Indian Parliament, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Samajwadi Party (SP) President Akhilesh Yadav took a lighthearted yet pointed jab at the topic of leadership selection and dynastic politics, both smiling while addressing the issue.
The conversation, which took place during a debate on the Waqf Amendment Bill, highlighted the differences in political approaches between the BJP and other parties.
The Exchange: Smiles and Sharp Remarks
The discussion began when Akhilesh Yadav, with a smile, spoke about the dynastic politics practiced by many opposition parties.
Amit Shah said, โAkhilesh ji said something with a smile, and I will respond with a smile.โ
He added, โAll the parties in front of me have to elect their national president from among five people of the family,โ pointing to what he termed as the dynastic nature of the opposition.
Shah, while pointing to the opposition benches, elaborated on the process of leadership selection in the BJP: โWe must follow a process and choose a chief from 12-13 crore members. So, it takes time,โ he said, drawing a cheer from BJP MPs.
โYou wonโt take time. I am telling you, you will be party president for 25 years. No one can change,โ said Shah.
Shahโs response was a subtle jab at opposition parties, which he implied practice dynastic politics where leadership is passed down within a family.
Context of the Debate
Amit Shah and other BJP leaders have repeatedly criticized the Congress and other opposition parties for promoting family-centric political practices, where the leadership is often passed on within the family.
On the other hand, parties like the Samajwadi Party have defended the role of families in politics, citing the need for continuity and understanding of peopleโs problems.
This exchange also reflects the BJPโs ongoing internal debates over leadership succession.
Shahโs remark about a 25-year tenure as party president could be seen as a subtle reference to the growing influence of certain individuals within the party, particularly when it comes to leadership decisions.
The exchange between Amit Shah and Akhilesh Yadav, both with smiles on their faces, provided an entertaining moment in the midst of serious political discourse. It also underscored the contrasting approaches of the two leaders and their respective parties when it comes to leadership selection.
While Shah defended the BJPโs inclusive process for leadership, Yadav pointed to the value of family in understanding the real issues of the masses. The playful remarks, however, highlighted the deepening divide between the two parties on the issue of dynastic politics and leadership in India.
