Nitin Gadkari Emerging As Alternative To Modi

Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Transport and National Highways, is emerging as a potential alternative to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reportedly with the backing of the RSS. 

Despite supporting Modi for a decade, Gadkari's influence was curtailed when Modi, after his 2019 re-election, reduced his responsibilities, leaving him only with the transport portfolio. 

Over time, Modi sidelined Gadkari from key decision-making bodies like the BJP Parliamentary Board and Central Election Committee, promoting Devendra Fadnavis as a counterweight in Maharashtra.

Though Gadkari hinted at quitting politics, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat persuaded him to remain patient. Despite his diminished role, Gadkari's ministry has excelled, especially in infrastructure development, with Modi often taking credit for these achievements. 

Gadkari, respected for his straightforward approach, maintains relationships with leaders across party lines, unlike other ministers who require Amit Shah’s approval for political meetings.

As the BJP struggled to secure a majority in the 2024 elections, Gadkari became more active, with the RSS urging him to prepare for a larger role. 

Meanwhile, Modi worked to maintain control by aligning with corporate interests and key regional allies like Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar, weakening other potential counterparts. However, cracks are appearing in Modi’s dominance, with growing discontent within the BJP and external challenges such as the push for a caste census.

As Modi approaches his 75th birthday, there is speculation that he may step down, with the RSS grooming Gadkari for leadership. 

With several key state elections looming, Gadkari is poised to become a central figure in shaping the future of the BJP. It is widely anticipated that the BJP is likely to face defeat in the upcoming elections in Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, the party is expected to struggle in the Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections in November, as well as the Delhi elections in February.

As a result, confidence in Modi's leadership is steadily declining. Unless the BJP secures victories in a majority of the aforementioned states, Modi's influence and stature will not shine with full strength.