The Rise of Smriti Irani: Understanding the BJP’s Strategic Decision Post-2014 Elections

India's political landscape has seen numerous changes in the past couple of decades, with one major transformation being the ascent of Smriti Irani within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The question often asked is why Modi chose Smriti Irani to lead the party when Hema Malini, a prominent candidate and twice Rajya Sabha member, emerged victorious in her elections. This article delves into the factors that led to the strategic decision of the BJP post the 2014 elections.

The Political Background of Hema Malini and Smriti Irani

Hema Malini, a celebrated film actress and politician, was not a full-time politician until 2014. Her political journey began when she campaigned for BJP candidates from 1999 to 2004. In 2004, she officially joined the BJP and rose through the ranks to become the General Secretary in 2010. However, her political career was primarily focused on supporting BJP candidates rather than contesting elections on her own.

In contrast, Smriti Irani joined the BJP in 2003, early in the party's rise. She quickly climbed the ranks, becoming the vice-president of the Maharashtra Youth Wing in 2004. Irani also contested against Kapil Sibal in the Chandni Chowk constituency in 2004. She has held significant positions within the party, including being a member of the Party Central Committee and serving as the National Secretary and All India President of the BJP Mahila Morcha.

The 2014 General Elections and the BJP's Strategic Moves

Despite Hema Malini's victory and political experience, the BJP's strategic decision to elevate Smriti Irani after the 2014 elections can be attributed to a combination of factors.

Firstly, Smriti Irani's multifaceted involvement in the BJP provided the party with a well-rounded leader who has experience in various capacities. Her political journey in the BJP, which began in 2003, aligns with the party's rise and significant advancements. The 2014 elections were not merely about defeating opposition candidates; it was about consolidating and expanding the BJP's influence.

Secondly, the BJP's strategy involved promoting women leaders to address gender diversity and appeal to a wider voter base. Smriti Irani became a prominent face of the BJP, breaking the glass ceiling for women within the party. This move was instrumental in capturing the hearts of many, especially in a predominantly male-dominated political environment.

The Aftermath of the 2014 Elections: Perception and Reality

While Smriti Irani lost the election against Rahul Gandhi in Amethi, it is important to understand that the 2014 wave presented a unique scenario. The Samajwadi Party (SP) had significant influence in supporting Rahul Gandhi, with leaders like Akhilesh Yadav and Gayatri Prajapati actively working against Smriti Irani.

The BJP's victory in the 2017 UP Assembly election, where they swept all Vidhansabha seats in Amethi, further demonstrates the political landscape's fluidity. These electoral outcomes suggest that the BJP's strategy effectively ensured their dominance and set them up for future campaigns.

The talk about Hema Malini's potential for ministerial roles in the BJP, like that of Shatrughan Sinha and Vinod Khanna, highlights the different paths political leaders can take within a party. Irani's trajectory showcases a clear path from grassroots activism to party leadership, making her a more marketable and strategic candidate for long-term ambitions.

Conclusion

Modi's decision to choose Smriti Irani post the 2014 elections was a strategic move that leveraged her involvement, experience, and the party's broader goals. While Hema Malini's victory in her elections is commendable, the complexities of political maneuvering and party strategy often determine who advances to national leadership.

The political journey of Smriti Irani offers valuable insights into the dynamics of Indian politics, highlighting the importance of strategic positioning and the multifaceted nature of political careers. As India continues to evolve, the story of Smriti Irani will remain a significant chapter in the history of the BJP and Indian politics.