Special correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
Agra, Nov 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressed a huge rally here on Sunday November 20. Although one expected that various problems the people have been facing on account of demonetization move of the PM including the need to spend several hours in the queues would have adversely affected his charisma, the huge gathering proved that Modi's sway over the populace of Uttar Pradesh stays. The people took part in the rally with enthusiasm, and were seen to be extending support to all the measures and important decisions undertaken by the Modi government. The mammoth presence of people came as a reassurance for the BJP about its bright chances in the assembly election.
Modi's oratorical skills, his assurance to drive away black money and work for the welfare and progress of the country, and his wry barbs at his opponents received enthusiastic support of the audience, mostly made of youngsters, who frequently erupted in thunderous applause during his address.
Many who were interviewed by the media on this occasion seemed to have wholeheartedly welcomed Modi's initiative to tackle black money. The people in general were found to be unmindful of small trouble they had to go through to make big gains for the country as a whole. A lady from the city said that those who had accumulated black money were the ones who faced the heat of this action by the PM. Some homemakers who took part in the rally said they have no qualms about standing in queues to exchange old notes, as this small sacrifice they believe, would benefit the country in a big way. Another lady from a nearby village vowed that this measure will begin to bear fruits after some time, and that those who are criticizing the PM's move, will begin to appreciate him then.
Another youth from Agra, agreed he was neither a fan nor a follower of the PM, but that he had come to hear what the PM wanted to say. He said he has come to appreciate the resolve and determination shown by Modi in tackling huge problems which no other politician has done.
"This is the death-knell for hoarders of black money. The opposition was caught unawares by this move. Lets see what they will do to win elections," remarked a middle-aged resident of Fatehpur Sikri. A college student said that she backs demonetization move to the hilt irrespective of opposition to it from various quarters. She strongly felt that Modi is serving the national interest with his moves.
In general, the rally went to prove that people in general and young people in particular have been giving thrust to Modi's initiatives in a big way. In their opinion, there appears to be an air that is dispelling the gloomy past and paving way for a bright future, and there is an emerging hope that PM can bring a change in the country for the better.