When Bilawal Zardari Bhutto addressed PPP workers, there was one man in Mumbai who understood what would have been going through his mind at that point in time.
MUMBAI: When the suave and urbane Bilawal Zardari Bhutto addressed PPP workers in a clipped British accent, seemingly unable to come to terms with the adulation and dynamics of sub-continental politics, there was one man in Mumbai who understood what would have been going through the 19-year-old's mind at that point in time.
"GenNext leaders are Western-educated and often think in liberal terms," Milind Deora told DNA. "Often they find it difficult to reconcile concepts like casteless and a classless society with what they see on the ground level. While being part of a dynasty gives you certain inherent advantages, it also might involve taking on the legacy that has been built up by the previous generation."
Taking on the legacy usually means creating a separate identity through word and actions that might go against party culture, institutions and overall work ethic. For instance, how does one explain Rahul Gandhi amending the Congress Constitution to weed out unpractical clauses such as ban on drinking and wearing khadi a must for joining Congress?
"The GenNext leaders loved it, but the old guard made its disapproval quite evident," said a young Congress leader. For that matter, take the case of Supriya Sule, who is building up her support base by diving headlong into social issues, such as primary education and welfare of the tribal community. "Often, she has to confront the sugar lobby head on, which is her father's legacy and one of his main sources of power," said a senior NCP leader.
"Political dynasty has become a global phenomenon. It is no longer confined to the Asian sub-continent. It is there even in the most developed nation such as United States," said Deora. He recalled how once US President George W Bush had said, 'Along with political inheritance you also inherit your family's friends and enemies.'
"When there is a political transition within the family the inexperience does not count. The political party develops natural confidence in the individual who has inherited the political legacy," said late Congress leader VN Gadgil's son Anant.
Along with the fame associated with a popular political parivar, there is also the responsibility, Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut, closely associated with the Thackerays, said, "Unlike Balasaheb, his son Uddhav has a different personality. But when it comes to decision making he has always displayed the same firmness and boldness."
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