Manohar Parrikar was the epitome of simplicity and efficiency. He was not like other politicians and never carried his weight around even when he was a Cabinet minister in the Central government. Whenever we approached him for some work, he would directly call the officer concerned and instruct him/her what has to be done. This is efficiency. I would say he is ‘yes-yes no-no’ man — if something is possible he would say ‘yes’ or else he would say ‘no’. He would leave no room for guessing or waiting.
Parrikar was always open to suggestions even if they are critical of him. Whenever some questions are asked to some of his ministerial colleagues in the Assembly, Parrikar would pitch in if the minister was not forthcoming or found fumbling. Once I told him: Mr Parrikar, you are the government. Give some credit to your ministers, also. It will be an encouragement to them.” He said: “I will keep this in mind” and smiled.
Though he never showed that I could sense that he was not quite at home in Delhi.
In many issues, we disagreed but he never showed any rancour. Even when he was in Delhi, his doors were always opened to us. He was a simple and good human being.
May his soul rest in peace!
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