In a surprise political decision, Bhupendra Patel has been named the new Chief Minister of Gujarat. This humble, fresh face from Ghatlodiya, Ahmedabad has dislodged other contenders who were being mooted, including Mansukh Mandaviya, Nitin Patel, CR Paatil and others.
Patel won the election as an MLA in 2017 and has been appreciated for his work in the Covid crisis. We talk to political analysts about their opinion on Vijay Rupani’s resignation and the appointment of Patel.
Vishnu Pandya, chairman of Gujarat Sahitya Akademi
“Change and experiment have been a core philosophy of the BJP and this move of appointing Bhupendra Patel is just one example of it. We need to appreciate how gracefully Rupani accepted the decision and stepped down.”
I’m reminded of a book title ‘Aaje pan chamatkar bane chhe’ – Modi has proved this once again. He brought a Patidar CM from Ahmedabad and that’s a political miracle; this one move will appease many at one go. When Keshubhai resigned, a fresh face Suresh Mehta was appointed. Even Narendra Modi was a fresh face when he was appointed CM; this was repeated when Rupani took charge and now, the same old trick is repeated in bringing in Bhupendra Patel. He is a patient person and that’s a rare quality in politicians. If he also has a vision for the state, it will be an added benefit.”
NG Patel, President Karnavati Club
“I have known Bhupendra bhai for over 25 years and I can say with confidence that he is hardworking and honest – two qualities we need in our CM. My association with him began when we both were in the construction sector and he has hardly changed since then. The BJP has given an opportunity to a fresh face and that’s a welcome change. Another plus point about him is his education and his experience as AUDA (Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority) chairman; both will come in handy in administrating the state.”
Surendra Patel, owner, Vishala – The Village Restaurant
“With Bhupendra Patel, BJP has brought diversity to the party. There are senior politicians, but the newer generation is getting the opportunity to take up important roles like this – and this move is appreciated. Even though he is a Kadva Patel I don’t think the benefits of it will be just reaped by Patidars; he will keep a balance as that’s important to safeguard his position. Patel is also a humble and a positive person; Gujarat deserves such a CM.”
Prakash Shah, political analyst
“With Patel’s appointment, the government is trying to redefine their character in the State. He is Anandiben’s prodigy, and it is interesting to see the consensus of Anandiben and PM Modi for the selection of Gujarat CM. The BJP has always believed in the ‘No repeat’ theory and that’s the reason Patel got the opportunity while many were waiting in line. But I feel sorry for Nitin Patel who has been waiting for his turn to be Gujarat CM for so long.
“Patel is closely associated with the builders’ group and the construction industry; this will also help BJP gather support and resources for the party. The whole move is a class apart.”
Hari Desai, Director Chimanbhai Patel Institute of Journalism and Communication
“BJP needs to keep a balance between Leuva and Kadva Patel and therefore Bhupendra Patel, a Kadva Patel is appointed. A candidate that has the approval of Amit Shah, Narendra Modi and Anandiben Patel has become the CM of Gujarat and that reflects the strategic planning of BJP. Modi never opts for the names that are popularly discussed or suggested and thus, everyone was ready for a surprise. Bhupendra will also be helpful to the party in generating funds as he belongs to the builders’ group and has also been headed AUDA. Every piece of jigsaw puzzle falls in place.”
