Offices Of Profit

President and vice president will not be just ornamental posts for the Modi government.

- Pratul Sharma

During the initial days of the Narendra Modi government, President Pranab Mukherjee invited Union minister Venkaiah Naidu for a function at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. It turned out to be an unpleasant experience for Naidu. As the protocol demanded, toasts were raised and meals were served in courses. Before leaving, Naidu requested Mukherjee that he be excused from official functions as he found the protocol stifling. Mukherjee, however, did not stop inviting Naidu; he made sure that his food was served in a thali. “I like to eat my food at once,” Naidu would explain.

As Mukherjee makes way for Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, and Naidu almost certain to be vice president, there will be no escape for him from the protocol. However, there will be a bigger role to play for both of them than attending state banquets.

With less than two years left for the Lok Sabha elections, the elevation of the Kovind-Naidu duo is expected to help in Modi’s second bid for power. Kovind’s election would send a strong signal to the dalits, who make up about 16 per cent of the population. In fact, it has already shown some results. BSP chief Mayawati made a political move by quitting the Rajya Sabha, saying she was not allowed to raise dalit issues in the house. It is said that she is trying hard to retain her eroding dalit base.