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सरकारें आएंगी, जाएंगी, पार्टियां बनेंगी,
बिगड़ेंगी मगर ये देश रहना चाहिए।
This statement was made in the Parliament of the country by a towering political figure renowned for his principles, integrity, and unwavering commitment to democracy and national priorities. These words were spoken by the revered former Prime Minister of India, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee—often referred to as the ‘Ajatashatru’ of Indian politics—during the debate on the vote of confidence in Parliament in 1996.
This was a period when suitcases full of cash and political manoeuvring dominated the country’s politics, and governments were frequently formed and dissolved through such manipulations. The events surrounding the 1996 confidence vote—often described as a no-confidence situation—constitute a historic chapter in Indian political history. They marked the end of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s first term as Prime Minister, which lasted only 13 days.
This episode followed the elections to the 11th Lok Sabha, in which no single party secured a clear majority. In the 1996 general elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party emerged as the single largest party with 161 seats, while the Congress, the principal opposition party, won 140 seats. However, neither party was able to command a majority in the House.
On May 16, 1996, the then President of India, Shri Shankar Dayal Sharma, invited
On May 28, 1996, in his historic one-hour address to Parliament, Vajpayee ji accused the Congress party of engaging in “conspiratorial” attempts to topple his government
Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the leader of the largest party, to form the government, and Shri Vajpayee was sworn in as Prime Minister. On May 27, the debate on the confidence motion commenced in the Lok Sabha, at a time when the BJP was in a minority.
On May 28, 1996, in his historic one-hour address to Parliament, Vajpayee ji accused the Congress party of engaging in “conspiratorial” attempts to topple his government. In this speech, he strongly underscored the importance of morality in politics, national unity, and the uninterrupted continuity of democracy. When it became evident that he did not command a majority in the House, Shri Vajpayee resigned even before the vote was taken, stating that he bowed to the verdict of numbers, as the national interest was paramount to him.
Times changed, elections were held once again, and Atal Ji became Prime Minister for the second time in 1998. Once again, the Congress party brought a no-confidence motion against his government, and through political manoeuvring, the opposition succeeded in bringing down his government by just one vote in 1999, after it had lasted only 13 months.
Elections were held again later in 1999, and Atal Ji became Prime Minister of the country for the third time, this time with a full majority. Reflecting on the nation’s politics, public service, the overwhelming support of the people, and the sustained struggle and dedication of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Atal Ji remarked that this mandate was the result of forty years of committed effort. It was not accidental, nor was it a miracle; it was the outcome of hard work, grassroots engagement, and continuous struggle.
He emphasised that the Bharatiya Janata Party is a party that works 365 days a year, not one that suddenly emerges like a mushroom only during election season.
The lotus rises from the mud and blooms above the surface of the water, symbolising purity and success achieved through struggle. Owing to its pristine beauty and ability to remain unsullied, the lotus is regarded as a symbol of purity, spiritual growth, prosperity, and knowledge. Beyond being India’s national flower, the lotus is an integral part of Indian culture, teaching us that purity and beauty can be preserved even amidst adversity.
Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a man whose personality was as pure as a lotus, was a towering statesman in Indian politics, revered as the ‘Ajatashatru’—one without enemies. He had no adversaries because he believed in taking everyone along with him. Renowned as an eloquent orator, a sensitive poet, and a visionary leader, he embodied grace and statesmanship in public life.
Born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Atal Ji began his political journey with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Through his liberal and inclusive outlook, he rose from a common man to the pinnacle of Indian politics, consistently upholding values, ideals, and principles throughout his life.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s policies were firmly rooted in development and national security. In 1998, he made India a nuclear power by conducting the Pokhran nuclear tests, significantly strengthening the country’s position on the global stage. In the sphere of economic reforms, he launched the Golden Quadrilateral highway project, which proved to be a game-changer for India’s infrastructure.
In foreign policy, he followed the principle of “Neighbourhood First,” while in the social sector he placed strong emphasis on education by launching the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan. He also spearheaded a telecommunications revolution that transformed connectivity across the nation. His governance philosophy was anchored in
Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a man whose personality was as pure as a lotus, was a towering statesman in Indian politics, revered as the ‘Ajatashatru’—one without enemies. He had no adversaries because he believed in taking everyone along with him
democratic values, righteous administration, and equal respect for all religions.
For Kashmir, he propounded the principle of “Insaniyat, Jamhooriyat, and Kashmiriyat,” emphasizing humanity, democracy, and regional harmony. Good governance was the guiding principle of his life, which is why his birthday is celebrated as Good Governance Day. Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s personality was gentle yet resolute, seamlessly blending poetry with politics. This is exemplified by his words: “No one becomes great with a small mind, and no one can stand tall with a broken spirit.”
His legacy remains deeply relevant today—championing inclusive development, a strong foreign policy, and the protection of democratic values. Awarded the Bharat Ratna, Atal Ji elevated Indian politics to a higher plane, where principles were never compromised. His contributions continue to serve as a milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation.
Regarding political foresight, the opposition’s obstructionist tactics, and the challenges facing Indian democracy, Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said, “Congress out of power is more dangerous than Congress in power.” His observation continues to resonate in the context of contemporary Indian politics. The Congress party, driven by a desire to regain power, often resorts to unethical and undemocratic methods.
Atal Ji, however, always respected the opposition and believed that its role should be constructive rather than merely obstructive. He emphasised that political differences should remain at the ideological level, without fostering personal animosity. Yet, in the current parliamentary sessions of 2024–25, the strategies of the Congress and other parties in the INDIA alliance have frequently focused on creating disruption, staging walkouts, and hampering the legislative process. In this context, Atal Ji’s warning proves remarkably prescient.
To be continued…
(The writer is National General Secretary, BJP)