One-Man Party
“Family-run party” — the BJP’s favourite punch line against the Congress — has long captured public attention. Yet, the Congress of Indira Gandhi’s era was a political amalgamation of several splinter groups that merged for survival and growth. With the dissolution of the original Congress, all its assets and legacy naturally flowed into Indira’s faction, later recognised as the Indian National Congress (INC). Ironically, the BJP today mirrors what it once mocked. It has effectively become a one-man party, remotely controlled by the RSS, with decisions centralised and members compelled to echo the party line. Independent thought or dissent is met with swift expulsion. Much like the monolithic Congress of the past, the BJP now seeks to absorb regional parties through inducements and alliances of convenience. Ticket distribution is often limited to loyalists and political families. In Goa, the “family rule” under BJP stands exposed — with the Lobos, Ranes, and Monserrates occupying key positions. Every rule, however, has its exception. Congress ruled for seven decades. The question now is: how long will the BJP’s dominance endure? — Nelson Lopes, Chinchinim Nelson Lopes Chinchinim https://lopesnelsonnat.wordpress.com
