Our landslide victory in the recent panchayat elections has made us humbler. Victory brings more responsibilities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his maiden speech after the historic win in the lok Sabha elections in May last had said that ‘Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas’ is our mantra. I am happy that we have received the wholehearted support and cooperation of people from all sections of society in Madhya Pradesh and have been able to serve all without any discrimination to the best of our ability.
Former President and thinker Dr APJ Abdul Kalam in his autobiography ‘Wings of Fire’ said, “Dream is not that which you see while sleeping, it is something that does not let you sleep.” I am also a dreamer. My one and only dream is to see Madhya Pradesh become the most developed, prosperous, educated and healthy State of the country. It is our hard work in last 10-11 years in this direction that has earned us the blessings of people in election after election. last year, first they voted us to power in the State, then extended unstinted support in the lok Sabha elections and in recent past they gave us the mandate in urban body and panchayat elections.
The success has not gone to our heads. We would deliver on the promises made to the people with total commitment and sincerity. We would live up to our commitment to transform the rural as well as urban areas.
Dr Kalam in his autobiography has also said, “It is easy to defeat someone but it is very hard to win someone.” It gives me more pleasure that we have been able to win the hearts of people than we defeated someone.
A strong opposition is necessary for good health of democracy, society and nation. We want the opposition to become strong and active partner in development of the state by playing a constructive role.
Unfortunately, opposition in Madhya Pradesh is a house divided. It reminds me of a couplet of Chakbast-Rahanumai Kiski Hogi, Hai Mujhe Hairat Yahi Kafile Mein Kaum Ke Sab, Peshawa Hone Ko Hain (I wonder as to whom on earth would lead, everyone in the convoy is eager to be leader).
All those thinking in the interest of democracy including myself wish the opposition to introspect and by removing its weaknesses and eschewing negative politics play a constructive role in the larger interest of people and the state. I extend my hearty greetings to all the workers on the creditable electoral victory.
(Writer is CM of MP)