Should Subramanian Swamy Be Given a Cabinet Position? Why Narendra Modi Keeps Him Away

Subramanian Swamy, a prominent political figure in India, has been a topic of debate regarding his potential inclusion in the cabinet. This article explores the reasons behind Narendra Modi's decision to keep Swamy out of crucial ministerial roles and evaluates whether his inclusion would be beneficial for the current government.

Historical Context and Current Perception

Swamy has a reputation that is both praised and criticized. He is often seen as a strong critic of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which has a long history within the Indian National Congress party. This opposition makes him an unreliable ally for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), even though he is a member. His unpredictable behavior and frequent off-the-cuff remarks further add to his complex image.

Reasons for Keeping Subramanian Swamy Out:

Strong Contradiction with Economic Policies: Swamy is known for his strong opposition to the economic policies of the BJP, particularly those of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While this makes him a vocal critic, it also poses a challenge in working collaboratively within the cabinet. personal Working Dynamics: Swamy is not a person who easily follows orders or directives from superiors. His outspoken nature and tendency to go against the grain might complicate his relationship with other ministers and the Prime Minister himself. Current Legal Obligations: Swamy has multiple high-profile legal cases to attend to, including the controversial Vodafone case, Augusta case, and others related to the Gandhi family. These responsibilities consume a significant portion of his time and energy, making it difficult for him to focus on government work. Achievements in the Supreme Court: Swamy has achieved notable successes in the Supreme Court, particularly in challenging cases against the Nehru-Gandhi family. However, his contributions in this area are seen as sufficient for his current role. Other ministerial responsibilities are deemed less critical for his expertise.

Addressing the Critics' Viewpoint

Some advocate for Swamy's inclusion in the cabinet, citing his expertise in economics and experience in managing complex legal cases. His knowledge of these matters is vital for the current government, and his efforts could significantly contribute to policy-making. However, several factors outweigh these benefits:

Key Challenges:

Preparation for Other Ministries: Even if Swamy was offered a seat in another ministry, his off-the-cuff remarks and premature statements might cause disruptions. His unpredictable nature could lead to public confusion and undermine government initiatives. Family Responsibilities: Additionally, Swamy has a wife to consider. Balancing family life with high-stakes government work could interfere with his performance and personal well-being. Strategic Considerations: From a strategic standpoint, Modi is likely trying to assemble a cabinet that can function smoothly without frequent internal conflicts. Incorporating Swamy might lead to such issues, which the BJP is likely to avoid.

Analogy to Film Industry

One can draw an analogy to the Indian film industry, specifically the iconic movie 'Sholay.' Just as Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra in 'Sholay' were the stars, Modi and Modi's trusted ally may be aiming for a similar dynamic. They want to present a strong, cohesive image without the complications that arise from too many vocal critics within the cabinet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Subramanian Swamy's contributions in the legal arena and his achievements are commendable, the complexities of his character and current commitments make his inclusion in the cabinet a challenging proposition. For now, it seems that keeping him within the party, where he can continue his legal battles and political stands, might be the most pragmatic decision. However, if Swamy proves that he can manage other ministerial portfolios effectively, his future in the cabinet cannot be ruled out.