IF the opinions of some of Internet users are anything to go by, Narendra Modi should not be the next chief minister of Gujarat. Instead, he should be the next Prime Minister of India. Free social networking sites on the Internet is galore with communities and postings, which project Narendra Modi as BJP’s best bet for prime ministerial candidate for the general elections in 2009. 

A posting in Orkut, a social networking site, apparently sent from Meerut, said, “It is time Narendra Modi is promoted as PM and not just as CM of Gujarat. A thumping victory in Gujarat can force the BJP leadership to hand over the mantle to Narendra Modi. This will help BJP to encash on Narendra Modi’s popularity amongst the Hindus and save their own seats and deposits in 2009 elections. Uttar Pradesh election results have shown what is going to happen in future. Gujaratis must not miss this opportunity.” 

Another scrap, by an apparent non-resident Gujarati from New Jersey, said, “Missing BJP here in America. A great personality is handling BJP Government in Gujarat, so have created this community in order to honour the one and only courageous and talented Mr Narendra Modi and his ministry. Yeh Woh Modi Hai Jisne Hame Hamare Dushmano Ke Samne Sar Uthake Jina Sikhaya, Jo Hamare Gujarat Me Ham Hi Pe Raj Kar Rahe The. (Narendra Modi has taught us to face our enemies and live with pride). So, make him the next Prime Minister.” 

Some entries also provide a list of reasons why Narendra Modi is the best candidate for the next PM. One list read: 

“1. He has stood by Hindutava no matter what the situation. He is loyal and must be rewarded. 

2. He has stood by the party unlike Uma Bharti, who is also a popular leader but had spoken against the party. 

3. Gujarat is India’s best state under Narendra Modi’s leadership. 

4. Narendra Modi is an OBC and I think the time has come that we should bring OBC candidates to lead Bharat.” 

BJP Supporter’s Group, a community in Orkut, with a membership of well over 8,000, had carried out a poll on prime ministerial candidates. Out of the total 365 votes casted, Narendra Modi had a clear majority. However, Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee President Bharat Singh Solanki said, “These are the manifestations of his propaganda. How much of public support he really has will be seen only after the elections.” 

Suspended BJP leader Gordhan Zadaphia went a step ahead. “He (Narendra Modi) is a master of manipulation. With the kind of fabricated picture he has projected outside, people are bound to get influenced,” he said.