Nitin Gadkari Warns BJP Against Repeating Congress’ Mistakes, Emphasizes Integrity and Reform

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/13th July 2024

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently emphasized the BJP’s reputation as a party of integrity that has consistently earned the trust of voters. However, he also issued a stark warning against repeating the mistakes that led to the Congress party’s loss of power in the past.

Speaking at a Goa BJP executive meeting near Panaji, Gadkari highlighted the need for the BJP to differentiate itself from other political parties. His comments came in the wake of the BJP failing to secure a majority on its own in the recent Lok Sabha elections. “If we continue doing what the Congress used to do, then there is no use of their exit and our entry,” Gadkari stated, underscoring the necessity for the BJP to learn from the Congress’ errors.

During his 40-minute address, attended by state unit president Sadanand Tanavade and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant among other leaders, Gadkari reflected on the teachings of his mentor and former Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani. He recalled Advani’s assertion that the BJP is a “party with a difference” and stressed the importance of understanding and maintaining that distinction. “We have to understand how different we are from other parties,” he reiterated.

Gadkari, who represents Nagpur in the Lok Sabha, pointed out that voters chose the BJP because of the Congress’ shortcomings. He warned that committing similar mistakes would nullify the significance of the BJP’s rise to power. “If we commit the same mistakes, then there is no use in their exit and our entry,” he asserted. Gadkari emphasized that politics should be viewed as a tool for implementing social and economic reforms. “We have to create a corruption-free country and for that, we should have a plan in place,” he added.

Referring to the political scenario in Maharashtra, Gadkari criticized the trend of caste-based politics, or “jativadi rajkaran,” prevalent in his home state. He declared his opposition to such practices, stating, “I have decided not to follow this trend. I have told people that I will not indulge in caste-based politics. The one who will speak about caste will get a strong kick.” Gadkari emphasized that an individual’s worth is determined by their values, not their caste.

In a message directed at BJP cadres in Goa, Gadkari urged them to visit every constituency and strengthen the party’s organization to ensure that the BJP retains power in the 2027 assembly elections. He stressed the importance of grassroots engagement and building a robust organizational structure to sustain the party’s success.

Gadkari’s speech serves as a reminder of the BJP’s core principles and the need for continuous self-assessment to avoid the pitfalls that befell the Congress. His call for integrity, reform, and a departure from divisive politics highlights the party’s commitment to creating a corruption-free and inclusive India. As the BJP navigates the political landscape, Gadkari’s insights provide valuable guidance for maintaining voter trust and achieving sustainable growth.