Is It Fair to Compare Arvind Kejriwal with Narendra Modi?
The question of whether Arvind Kejriwal and Narendra Modi should be compared is a topic of significant debate in contemporary Indian politics. Both leaders have made notable contributions to their respective political careers, yet their approaches and achievements differ greatly.
Arvind Kejriwal: The Elephant in the Political Jungle
Arvind Kejriwal, often referred to as the "Elephant of the Jungle" in reference to his outspoken nature and commitment to social causes, has been a prominent figure in Indian politics. He is known for his direct and often confrontational approach towards powerful business tycoons, including the Ambanis and the Adanis. Kejriwal's focus on social issues such as education and healthcare, particularly targeting the poor, has earned him considerable support. One of his most notable initiatives was the introduction of doorstep delivery services, which was aimed at reducing inefficiencies within the government machinery and curbing corruption.
Narendra Modi: The Sphinx of Modern Indian Politics
On the other hand, Narendra Modi, the current Prime Minister, is described in stark contrast as more of a "Sphinx of Modern Indian Politics." Despite being in office for multiple years, Modi's administration has been criticised for its failure to deliver on many of its promises. Issues such as the cleanliness of the Ganges, the construction of the Ram temple, and the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code continue to be unresolved. While Modi is praised for his efforts in foreign policy and the ongoing fight against corruption, his domestic record remains a subject of much debate. His approach to governance is often seen as more administrative and less personally engaged.
Efforts and Criticisms: A Comparative Analysis
When comparing the two leaders, it becomes evident that their approaches to governance, and the public expectations placed on them, are vastly different. Arvind Kejriwal, despite his many claims to service and activism, has faced criticism for his lack of commitment and inconsistent governance. For example, during his time as Chief Minister of Delhi, he did not hold any significant ministries, which was argued to expose his lack of administrative commitment. Under his leadership, Delhi's transportation sector has struggled, with only a fraction of the required number of buses and ongoing water crises in certain areas of the city. Similarly, the roads have not been adequately maintained, and many temporary teachers continue to work in the education sector, leading to concerns about the quality of education.
Conversely, Narendra Modi, despite facing criticisms on several fronts, such as job creation and issues in Kashmir, has been credited with significant achievements in his time as Prime Minister. His initiatives, like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission), have been successful on a national scale. Additionally, his efforts to reign in corruption at higher levels of government have earned him praise. However, his approach to policies that affect different religious groups has been a source of controversy, with some critics arguing that it fails to deliver the promised reforms.
The Verdict
The comparison between Arvind Kejriwal and Narendra Modi raises important questions about the nature of public service and leadership in modern India. While both leaders have their admirers, it is clear that their respective approaches and achievements are vastly different. The choice between them, or any other political leader, ultimately hinges on the individual's priorities and expectations from their government.
As educated Indians, it is essential to evaluate the performance of our leaders based on concrete policies and results rather than personal beliefs or projections. The Indian political landscape is continuously evolving, and it is crucial to stay informed and engaged in the discourse surrounding our elected representatives.