Vibhakar Shastri, the grandson of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, made headlines on Wednesday as he tendered his resignation from the Indian National Congress and swiftly embraced the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In a symbolic move, he aligned himself with the BJP’s ideology while taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, signaling a significant shift in his political allegiance.
The grandson of the revered Lal Bahadur Shastri, known for his iconic slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” Vibhakar Shastri’s departure from the Congress fold and subsequent embrace of the BJP underscores a departure from his family’s traditional political roots.
In a letter addressed to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Shastri formally announced his resignation from the primary membership of the Indian National Congress, laying the groundwork for his transition to the BJP. Shortly thereafter, he joined the BJP in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, cementing his newfound political affiliation.
Expressing gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President JP Nadda, Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Brajesh Pathak for welcoming him into the BJP fold, Shastri emphasized his commitment to furthering his grandfather’s vision under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.
Taking a swipe at the Congress party’s leadership, Shastri criticized its lack of clear ideology and its focus on opposing Prime Minister Modi rather than upholding a coherent vision for the country’s progress. His decision to align with the BJP reflects his belief in the party’s principles and its ability to realize Lal Bahadur Shastri’s dream of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.”
Lal Bahadur Shastri, a stalwart Gandhian leader who assumed the mantle of Prime Minister of India following Jawaharlal Nehru’s demise in 1964, is remembered for his simplicity, integrity, and leadership during the 1965 Indo-Pak war. His grandson’s entry into the BJP comes at a time when the party has intensified its critique of Nehru’s legacy, positioning itself as a vanguard of change and progress.
Shastri’s defection adds to the growing list of leaders who have parted ways with the Congress in recent weeks, further highlighting the shifting political landscape in the country. With prominent figures like Ashok Chavan joining the BJP and others exploring alternative political avenues, the Congress faces continued challenges in retaining its cadre and rejuvenating its leadership ranks.
Sources By Agencies
