Gujarat confidential: Lacking Punch

A government official said that probably political developments in Delhi and the opposition to the Statue of Unity project by tribals could be weighing on the PM’s mind that led to his “below average” speech.

After inaugurating the Statue of Unity at Kevadiya Colony in Narmada district last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a 45-minute-long speech. However, many felt that the PM, known for his oratory skills, was not at his best. Many said that the speech was not captivating and there was no political punch in it as expected against the Opposition. A government official said that probably political developments in Delhi and the opposition to the statue project by tribals could be weighing on the PM’s mind that led to his “below average” speech. However, a senior officer said, “I think considering the world-class occasion, inaugurating world’s tallest statue, the PM must have chosen not to attack anyone politically. I think the PM honoured the occasion.”

Keeping Company

The inaugural function of the Statue of Unity was attended by almost all the top BJP leaders in the state. While that is quite expected, it was noted that many leaders had also brought their wives along with them to witness the unveiling of the statue. While wives of Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel were spotted in the front row, wives of many top bureaucrats, including Chief Secretary J N Singh, were also seen in attendance. “Yes, many officers’ wives had attended the inauguration function. In fact, the state government had encouraged the idea,” a senior IAS officer said.

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