Letters: Modi: a gamble worth taking

This refers to the edit “BJP’s asset and liability” (June 12). It is understandable if leaders in the BJP feel that the party needs a fresh start. It has no hope if it continues to function in the same old tired way that is becoming reminiscent of the Congress. So, projecting Modi as a prime ministerial candidate seems like a gamble worth taking — even if that may mean alienating some NDA partners, who in any case seem more interested in charting their own political course. So, it makes sense for the BJP to gather the courage and project its clear stand on the next PM candidate.

Kishor Kulkarni Mumbai

...but one that can backfire

It is fairly certain now that Narendra Modi is headed for Delhi and chances are that he will not settle for anything less than a prime ministerial candidature. Your edit rightly asserts that Modi is nowhere close to Atal Bihari Vajpayee when it comes to building consensus. Instead, the two are poles apart. Sure, Modi’s aggressive, pro-reforms and growth-oriented policies are his strengths, but he is also known to be a vengeful politician who always settles scores with his rivals. And how can we forget that he is yet to apologise for the 2002 riots? Considering this, BJP’s plan to project Modi as its next PM might just backfire.

Bal Govind Noida

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