Maternal relationships in the Scindia royal family turn sour when it comes to politics. Former Congress leader Madhav Rao Scindia didn’t see eye-to-eye with his mother, Vijaya Raje Scindia, on their political affiliations. Vijaya Raje was a former BJP leader. Cut to present, Madhav Rao’s son and Congress minister Jyotiraditya and his mother-in-law Asharaje Gaekwad, a member of the Vadodara royal family, may not have personal differences but they do have political differences. Asharaje believes Narendra Modi is the only capable leader who can transform India into a developed nation. In an exclusive interview to Kiran Tare, Asharaje says she will back BJP and would like to see Modi become India’s Prime Minister. Excerpts…
Why are you supporting the BJP?
I am a citizen of Nepal. BJP has helped the Nepalese in India get good education. We Nepalese connect with the BJP on grounds of Hindutva, we share common beliefs on culture and God.
Why do you praise Modi when he is mired in so many controversies?
I am from Gujarat. I have seen his good governance. He is a capable leader and I have full faith in him.
Do you support him because he is a Hindutva mascot?
My ideas about Hindutva are not restricted to Hindus only. Hinduism is the most inclusive religion. I support Modi because he is a hard-working, progressive person. I believe India’s relations with Nepal will improve if he becomes PM.
Don’t you think Jyotiraditya will be upset with your political stand?
It is my personal view. My son-in-law is very capable and hard-working. He is doing well for his party.
What are your plans for BJP?
I am uniting 1.30 crore Nepalese voters across India to vote for the BJP. They are mainly spread across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka. I am planning to address BJP’s campaign rallies too.
What are you expecting from BJP in return?
I want respectful treatment of the Nepalese in India. Their needs are not much. They expect only roti, kapda aur makaan. I expect the BJP to work in this direction.
Why didn’t you become an Indian citizen even after so many years?
Nepal is my janmabhoomi (land of birth) and India is my karmabhoomi (work place). My country needs me. I hope in the future I could return to Nepal.