The BJP seems to have done a creditable job of choosing the new group of ministers, considering that its hands were tied so far as many of the incumbents were concerned. Several of the new ministers have already made their mark in far worthier fields of endeavour. What seems strange, however, is that while the right people have been chosen, many of them have been given the wrong jobs.Consider Suresh Prabhu, a chartered accountant and a banker of some eminence. Widely expected to get the commerce ministry, if not industry, Prabhu has been given the environment portfolio. What his connection with the environment can be is a matter beyond the realms of conjecture. Next, look at Ram Jethmalani, a criminal lawyer of national renown. Has the new government tried to utilise his professional competence by giving him the law ministry? Of course not -- his legal talents will now be utilised in the field of urban development. Madan Lal Khurana, who has had years of experience in trying to administer the urban chaosof Delhi, has been denied his rightful place in the urban development ministry -- for some unfathomable reason, his experience in urban affairs qualifies him for the parliamentary affairs ministry.
Maneka Gandhi, who has earned a well-deserved reputation as an environmental activist, has been asked to oversee the welfare ministry. Thankfully, the finance ministry at least has gone to someone who understands the subject.
Clearly, haggling over the ministries has taken its toll. The principle of the right man for the right job has obviously been given short shrift. That is a pity because, considering the wealth of talent in the new ministry, a golden opportunity for ensuring efficient governance has been missed.
Copyright © 1998 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.
