Narendra Modi has now become a defining page in India’s history, one that will be remembered for centuries: Dr Jagdeesh Chandra

Expressing the pulse of the nation on the installation of the ‘Dharm Dhwaja’ at Ram Temple At Ayodhya, Dr Jagdeesh Chandra said the Ayodhya Dharm Dhwaja moment marked not just the completion of the Ram Temple, but the fulfilment of Narendra Modi’s long-standing vow and a historic turning point for Indian civilization. He stressed that Modi’s emotional presence at the ceremony symbolised a spiritual coronation, and that the Prime Minister has now become a figure, who will be remembered for generations. Dr Chandra noted that the nation views Modi as a spiritual leader as much as a political one, and described the event as a moment that united 140 crore citizens emotionally. He added that the entire country today speaks only one name with reverence, Narendra Modi. Excerpts... (Part-II)

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the Dharm Dhwaja in Ayodhya, marking the completion of the Ram Temple construction and fulfilment of his pledge. What would you like to say about this?
  Dr Jagdeesh Chandra: Narendra Modi is correct in saying that the Dharm Dhwaja is not just a flag, but a symbol of the renaissance of Indian civilisation. It represents the pinnacle of India’s cultural consciousness. Many years ago, when Narendra Modi promised, resolved and performed a ‘Yajna’ for the Ram Temple, this ceremony became the final offering to that commitment. The emotional expression with which Narendra Modi watched the flag rise alongside Mohan Bhagwat and Yogi created a moment where it felt as though the spirit of Lord Ram resided within him. The atmosphere of the ceremony and Modi’s presence made it seem as if Lord Ram himself was blessing him and performing his coronation. Narendra Modi has now become part of India’s history, a chapter that will be remembered for centuries. A person standing outside the ceremony, perhaps a taxi driver as someone told me, commented, “As long as the sun and moon exist, Narendra Modi’s name will remain here.” Another remark expressed that just as every particle of the universe is believed to contain Ram, similarly every particle of India now seems filled with Narendra Modi. With this single emotional speech, Narendra Modi has once again become the hero of the nation and has won the heart and soul of 140 crore Indian minds. At his core, Narendra Modi has always been a saint-like figure, a fakir, a spiritual guide and a religious leader. This time it truly feels as though he was sent by Lord Ram for this purpose. He himself has said earlier that perhaps God has sent him to fulfil this task, and the responsibility given to him by Lord Ram has now been completed. Today, the entire nation feels grateful and emotionally moved. Watching the ceremony unfold on television filled the country with excitement, and on everyone’s lips was only one name, Narendra Modi.
• The Home Minister Amit Shah also played a key role in the Ram Temple process. Would you like to comment on this?
  Of course. Had Amit Shah not prepared thoroughly and ensured powerful representation in the Supreme Court with a strong legal team, perhaps the Ram Temple would not have become a reality. It can be stated with certainty that Amit Shah played a key role in fulfilling Narendra Modi’s resolve. He deserves a vote of thanks from the nation.
• What would you say about the chemistry observed between Narendra Modi and Mohan Bhagwat during the flaghoisting ceremony?
  It was a very pleasant moment. The most significant part was the humility Narendra Modi demonstrated when he said ‘after you’ and asked Mohan Bhagwat to go first, walking behind him afterward. I consider Narendra Modi a kind of ‘Emperor,’ yet his conduct felt remarkably grounded and gracious. It was unconventional, but carried immense dignity. The sight filled BJP and RSS workers with immense joy and enthusiasm. Witnessing both leaders together, and Narendra Modi’s humility in inviting Mohan Bhagwat ahead and then walking a few steps behind him, was a reflection of greatness. When a person gains power, the truly wise become more humble, and yesterday’s moment proved that. Overall, it was a beautiful and heartening sight, widely covered by newspapers and truly delightful to witness.
• There appears to be an ongoing disagreement between BJP and JDU over the Speaker’s post in Bihar. What do you think will be the final outcome?
  The final outcome will depend on Amit Shah’s authority. It is clear that the Speaker will be from the BJP. The BJP cannot take any risks there. Prem Kumar has won elections nine times and has previously served as Speaker. He will likely be the candidate. There are certain matters on which Amit Shah will not compromise. Under Narendra Modi’s supervision, he did not compromise on the Home Ministry and took it. Now, the Speaker’s post holds a significance that Amit Shah understands in depth, far more than most. Maharashtra is a clear example of why he will not let this position go at any cost. I believe everything must already be settled by now. On December 1, the Speaker and Leader of Opposition elections will take place. Once the House convenes, this issue will resolve in due process. The surprising factor is why Nitish Kumar remains concerned about the Speaker’s post and the Home Department even after being made Chief Minister. Power has already been handed fully to him, so what remains unresolved? My assessment is that the Speaker’s position will go to the BJP, and Prem Kumar will likely be the next Speaker.
• Why are Sonia Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi unable to resolve the internal disputes in the Congress party?
  The main issue is indecisiveness and lack of accessible responsibility when it comes to Rahul Gandhi. Making promises or denying promises, but never clarifying in time, has become a longstanding Congress pattern. In several states, statements like “you will rule for two and a half years and then the next leader will rule afterward” led to confusion and disputes. Then leadership says such promises were never made.
  This happened in Rajasthan between Gehlot and Pilot. Pilot spent years under the impression that he would become Chief Minister after two and a half years. The Gehlot camp insisted no such promise was ever made by the high command, neither by Sonia nor Priyanka. The dispute stretched endlessly. The key question is: when the conflict began in Rajasthan, and later Chhattisgarh, why did Sonia or Rahul not step forward immediately to issue a clear statement? They could have said, “We never made such a promise. This is not factually correct.” They would not even have needed to call anyone a liar, but the matter would have ended. Instead, it was left hanging, creating confusion.
  Now in Karnataka, claims are being made again that Rahul Gandhi promised leadership rotation after two and a half years. Two and a half years have passed, and now demands are being made. Power is such that no one wants to relinquish it. Siddaramaiah is the most popular leader there, but disputes continue because of indecisiveness at the top.
  Recently, after the Bihar loss, Mallikarjun Kharge was reportedly distressed and called Sonia Gandhi, who reacted with surprise and disappointment. She reportedly asked how such a defeat happened despite hard work. Kharge then responded that accessing Rahul Gandhi is extremely difficult, & even speaking with him for 15 minutes is a challenge. After the ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’ ended, Kharge had told Rahul that seats should be finalised with Tejashwi, so candidates could prepare. Rahul said “we will see,” and before anything was finalised, he left for South Africa. When Kharge called, he was told Rahul would be back in five days. Then he did not return for 17 days, and upon returning, did not inform Kharge for two more days. Feeling ignored, Kharge complained to Sonia Gandhi, and it is believed she expressed her displeasure to Rahul.
  Ultimately, the problem is clear: without Rahul Gandhi, Congress does not exist, and with Rahul Gandhi, Congress exists, that is the reality. Until the Congress President, who practically means Rahul Gandhi, is regularly available, responsive and accessible to workers and leaders, the party will continue facing such crises. There must be a system, where people know Rahul Gandhi is available for discussions daily between specific hours. Until then, internal disputes will continue. Now, we must wait to see how the situation unfolds in Karnataka.
• The Lalu family appears distressed due to the possibility of sentencing. What are your thoughts?
  You are absolutely right. They are also human. Lalu Prasad has already been convicted in three cases related to the fodder scam. Now, there is a concern that in two remaining railway tender cases, sentencing may occur. In these cases, Tejashwi, Misa and Tej Pratap are also accused. As a father, it is natural for him to fear seeing his children go to jail during his lifetime. There is emotional pain. Meanwhile Tejashwi feels he is suffering because of his father’s legacy. He believes elections were lost because of the “Jungle raj” narrative. Family tensions already existed, and now the court has announced day-today hearings. Rabri Devi strongly objected and sought a transfer of the judge. However, day-to-day hearing means the case may conclude within six to eight months, and sentencing may follow.
  If that happens, and multiple family members go to jail, then almost the entire family, the core leadership, will be imprisoned. What will happen to their political legacy and future? It is a serious situation. The law that once had implications for holding office, may no longer be relevant, since he is no longer Chief Minister. But overall, the family is deeply worried, and your information is absolutely correct.

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