Why Does Narendra Modi Trust Amit Shah Over All Others?
The trust between Narendra Modi and Amit Shah goes beyond mere political alliance. This pair has been at the helm of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and India with a level of loyalty and cooperation that is truly unprecedented. To truly understand why Modi places such immense trust in Shah, one must delve into their shared history, their roles within the party, and their influence over each other's careers.
Historical Context and Working Dynamics
Modi and Shah's partnership traces back to the 1980s when both were part of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological backbone of the BJP. Their journey from RSS members to key political figures in the BJP is both intriguing and insightful. Modi, a minor RSS pracharak (volunteer) during the 1980s, found in Sharon Anilbhai, him, a like-minded and ambitious confidante.
At the time, the BJP led by V P Singh was just a small party, and both were instrumental in the party's rise to prominence. Modi and Shah's relationship was marked by their shared secretive and ambitious streak. Rajesh Pawar, a former Gujarat minister, describes their dynamic as follows: 'They were both birds of the same feather. They flocked together and were instrumental in plotting Modi's every move.'
“They are like water and oil - inseparable and yet different in nature.”Anonymous
Despite their similar aims, Shah faced initial resistance from his family to joining the RSS, while Modi used the organization to escape a life of relative poverty. This unique foundation laid the groundwork for their enduring collaboration.
Modi's Delegation of Responsibilities to Shah
While Modi rose to become the chief minister of Gujarat under V P Singh, he appointed Shah as chairman of the Gujarat State Financial Corporation, a public sector bank. This was a significant step in entrusting Shah with critical responsibilities. Shah's role expanded over time, becoming the second most important figure in Gujarat with immense control and authority. His influence extended even beyond the cabinet, sometimes conducting meetings in Modi's absence, reflecting his importance in decision-making.
Even during Modi's exile, Shah continued to provide critical information and strategic advice. His role as an informer or leak to Modi from within the party was instrumental in shaping narratives and ensuring the BJP's survival and growth. This dual role reflected a deep trust and reliance between the two leaders.
The Impact of Their Partnership
Their partnership was not without its challenges. Political rivals and collaborators within the BJP have often criticized the duo's authoritarian leadership style. While they have managed to retain and consolidate power, their methods have also led to accusations of organizational and ideological damage within the party.
Even former vice-minister Shankarsinh Vaghela, who played a significant role in the BJP, admitted, 'Shah is the only one Modi has relied on and together they may have retained power but they destroyed the BJP in Gujarat organisationally and ideologically.' This acknowledgment underscores the complex relationship between personal loyalty and organizational damage.
However, Modi's political acumen has allowed him to sidestep these challenges and focus on broader, national goals. Shah's role as union home minister, taking charge on June 1, 2023, further cements his position as a trusted lieutenant and a cornerstone of Modi's administration.
Concluding Remarks
The trust between Modi and Shah is a testament to their shared history, ambition, and collaborative spirit. While their partnership has led to significant political gains, it has also brought its share of criticism and concerns about the long-term health of the party. The relationship between these two leaders reflects the complex dynamics of Indian politics, where personal trust and political pragmatism often converge to shape the future of the nation.