Another important point thrown up in the course of the event—much to Modi’s liking as also that of the patriotic Gujaratis, at home and abroad—is that even in the backdrop of a grave sense of injustice plaguing the victims of the 2002 communal holocaust, there is an atmosphere of peace. Put more simply, there is no law and order problem in the state. The event brought home the reality that Gujarat has always attracted investments irrespective of communal riots even in the past. Besides, of course, emphasising and reinforcing Modi’s ability as an organiser, his news-sense and his canny politician’s ways—a stark contrast to that of an average RSS pracharak.
Chief minister Modi’s wish that the meet be a memorable one was fulfilled by the presence of top industrial honchos—including Nigel Shaw of British Gas, Steve Twilley of Royal Dutch Shell, Marc Den Hartog of Shell India, Ed Samson of Niko Resources—besides former US senator Larry Pressler and Union petroleum minister Ram Naik.
Cynics say MoUs have no meaning. Precedents aren’t too encouraging: only 10 per cent get translated into reality. But even 10 per cent of the Rs 55,000 crore promised is no minor figure. To make things sunnier for all Gujarat lovers, the Ambanis have promised that Reliance will invest Rs 8,000 crore in the energy and broadband sector in the state. Critics, however, allege that projects already in the pipeline, or MoUs already signed, are being added to produce the inflated post-summit figures. But the festive atmosphere in Gujarat and the jubilation all around has drowned out the criticism of the Modi-baiters. At least, for now.
By Darshan Desai
