Why Varun Gandhi is Sidelined by the BJP: A Political Analysis

Over the past few years, Varun Gandhi's political journey with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been marked by a series of disappointments, largely due to his overbearing attitude and the party's recognition of talent over family connections. This article delves into the reasons behind the BJP's decision to sideline Varun Gandhi and explains the political dynamics at play.

Varun Gandhi's Overbearing Attitude and Ambitions

Varun Gandhi, the son of Sanjay Gandhi, son-in-law of Rajiv Gandhi, and cousin of Rahul Gandhi, has often showcased an overbearing attitude in his political career. He has always aspired to hold a significant position within the BJP. However, the BJP has laid down its own benchmarks for leadership, recognizing talent and achievements rather than family names.

The False Perception of Success

Varun Gandhi once presumed he could emulate the political success of his cousin, Pappu, within the BJP. However, his expectations were far from reality. The BJP operates on the principle of meritocracy and has never been swayed by nepotism. Varun's failed attempt to position himself as a formidable opponent to Rahul Gandhi in the 2014 elections exemplifies the party's strong stance against promoting individuals from the Gandhi family.

BJP and the Gandhi Family: A Complicated Relationship

The BJP, being fundamentally anti-Congress in its politics, has no intention of actively promoting any member of the Gandhi family. The relationship between Varun Gandhi and the BJP is always held with a degree of doubt and skepticism. Varun made a strategic move to affiliate with the BJP solely for the purpose of gaining recognition in the Congress party. His primary goal was to become a true successor to Indira Gandhi, much to the BJP's dismay.

The 2014 Elections: A Strategic Move

During the 2014 general elections, the BJP faced significant challenges in Uttar Pradesh. To counter these challenges, they decided to utilize young and aspirational candidates to stand against Akhilesh Yadav and Rahul Gandhi. Providing a Lokshabha ticket to Varun Gandhi in Sultanpur, a seat with a strong Gandhi family legacy, was part of this strategy. However, Varun Gandhi was limited to only Sultanpur and Pilibhit Lokshabha Seats, failing to live up to the high expectations.

The Rise and Fall of Varun Gandhi's Political Profile

Following the 2014 elections, the BJP provided significant profiles to other leaders like Menika Gandhi, further sidelining Varun. Within the party, Smriti Irani emerged as a standout performer, receiving a substantial portfolio in the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) and showing unwavering dedication to her constituency, Amethi. Varun, on the other hand, faced numerous controversies that hindered his rise in the BJP hierarchy.

The Impact of Personal and Political Controversies

Varun's journey in the BJP has been hampered by various personal and political controversies. His performance in the 2014 elections, particularly in Amethi, did not align with the expectations set by the party leadership. Additionally, the 2019 elections saw Smriti Irani's unwavering commitment to Amethi result in a decisive victory. This further marginalized Varun Gandhi's political relevance within the BJP.

The political dynamics within the BJP reveal a clear preference for merit and performance over family connections. Varun Gandhi's stint in the party serves as a case study in the challenges of overcoming nepotism and emerging as a true political leader in the context of a meritocratic party system.

Conclusion

Varun Gandhi's political journey with the BJP highlights the party's emphasis on talent and performance. His failed attempt to emulate his cousin's success within the BJP has led to his sidelining. The relationship between the BJP and the Gandhi family remains complex, with the party acting on its principles of meritocracy and anti-nepotism.