Last week's political events makes one think how the politics of India has sunken to its nadir over the manipulation and deal-making over a position which is not so-political, the highest office : The President of India. The respect and stature associated with this position demands that neither this position should be assigned to highly political persona nor the election process for this position should be utilized for politics playing. Gracefully, this position should be assigned to a non-political person who is loved by India.
Current Scenario
The suspense has moreover finished. Pranab Mukherjee seems certain to become the next President. The UPA coalition lacks the exact number right now but the backing of Mulayam Singh Yadav and Mayawati together with the unwillingness of A.P.J Abdul to contest for the President ensures that it's going to be a Pranab Moment.
Candidature
In the times of cynicism and dirty politics, this ceremonial position needs a candidate who understands the deep political roots and draws respect from widest sections of our politics and society. This is going to be the essence of the 13th President's five years so important. As a candidate Pranab Mukherjee's resume is worthy of the job. Four successful and eventful decades in public life gives him an unmatched experience than any other. He has played the role of chief troubleshooter for his party on national and state level. He can definitely be a good president.
In case if Mr. Kalam contests, he will have a strong competition due to the number game primarily. Mr. Kalam was never a political figure but he learned it quickly. He was a good president at a critical period of time and stood against Government, Parliament and even Judiciary to stop bad policies. I wish he had expressed his willingness to contest but even though if he had it would have been just nomination filing due to less numbers.
Unfinished Business in Post Pranab Case
As it is likely, Pranab Mukherjee will be the next President, the major issue arises that who will become the next Finance Minister and how the unfinished business of getting the country out of economic mess will be done and by whom ? Who is going to complete the unfinished business that Pranab Mukherjee has left.
The primary challenges for the Mukherjee's successor has :
- Cutting subsidies to reduce expenditure
- Insurance and Pension reforms
- Speeding up the Tax reforms through Goods and Service Tax (GST) and the Direct Taxes Code (DTC)
- Pushing a quick-start to FDI reform to bring in hard currencies
- Getting the infrastructure spending to deliver the goods
- Issuing the new Bank Licenses
