“Politics Is Not Pleasure, It Is Sacrifice”: What Nitin Nabin Said in His First Speech as BJP President

New Delhi:
In the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several senior BJP नेताओं, Nitin Nabin was formally declared the new National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday. Taking charge of the world’s largest political party, Nabin delivered his first address to party workers, offering a strong ideological message, a call to youth participation, and a roadmap for the challenges ahead.

He began his speech with slogans of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and the BJP’s party chant, before paying tribute to former national presidents. “On this occasion, I remember our previous national presidents and greet those present here today. Since I first became an विधायक in 2006, I have seen how Rajnath Singh sought to connect with every worker and how Nitin Gadkari worked to strengthen every front of the organisation,” Nabin said.

Call to the Youth: Politics Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Addressing the younger generation, Nabin urged them to step into public life and take responsibility for shaping the nation’s future. “The present generation must contribute its share of effort, sacrifice and penance. On August 15, 2024, Prime Minister Modi called upon the youth to join public life. I want to tell young people today—staying away from politics is not the solution; active participation is the only solution,” he said.

Using a sporting metaphor, he added, “Politics is not a shortcut. It is not a 100-metre race; it is a long marathon. It is not about speed, but about stamina. That is why we must strengthen our roots and bat firmly on the pitch of politics.”

Message for Party Workers
Nabin credited BJP’s growth into the world’s largest political party to strong leadership, a clear ideology, and the tireless efforts of its cadre. “If today the BJP has become the world’s largest political party, it is because of our inspirational leadership, our ideology, and the hard work of our workers. It is the worker who works tirelessly, who does not let the tricolour bow even in the most difficult circumstances, and who proudly declares, ‘Tera vaibhav amar rahe maa’,” he said.

‘Politics Is Not Power, It Is Sadhana’
Striking a philosophical tone, the new BJP chief said politics must be viewed as a form of service and discipline rather than a quest for power.
“We belong to a political party where politics is not power, it is sadhana (spiritual practice). Politics is not pleasure, it is sacrifice. Politics is not luxury, it is penance. Politics is not a पदभार (position of authority), it is a responsibility,” Nabin declared.

Focus on Upcoming Elections
Looking ahead, Nabin highlighted the electoral challenges in key states. “In the coming months, elections will be held in Tamil Nadu, Assam, West Bengal, Kerala and Puducherry. There is a discussion about changing demographics in these states. This is a challenge for us, but we are fully confident that BJP workers, through their struggle and hard work, will provide strong BJP leadership in all five states,” he said.

A Leader Who Rose Through Hard Work
Known for staying away from the limelight, Nabin had resigned from his posts as Bihar’s Minister for Law and Justice, Urban Development and Housing after being appointed BJP’s working president on December 14. Announcing the election results, party leader Laxman remarked, “This election shows that in the BJP, leadership does not emerge from dynastic privilege, but from hard work and dedication.”

JP Nadda: ‘A Historic Day for BJP’
Former BJP president JP Nadda described the moment as historic. “Today is a very historic day. Our young, energetic and talented Nitin Nabin is assuming office as the National President of the world’s largest political party, the BJP. On behalf of myself and crores of party workers, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to him,” Nadda said.

Nitin Nabin’s first speech as party chief set the tone for his leadership—rooted in ideology, driven by organisational strength, and focused on youth participation and upcoming electoral battles.