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stronger and more popular than Shambhu Maharaj. It was mere
coincidence that the name proposed by that leader was that of
a close friend of Vasantbhai, and that person was capable and
eligible from every angle; yet Vasantbhai answered in the
negative after having heard the entire argument. It is hard to
imagine when you are refusing a popular public figure of the
same vote bank. Still, the visiting leader said, “Vasantbhai, it is
politics in which everything is fair. What is the problem if
Shambhu Maharaj does not fight? Who keeps word in politics
today?” Despite all those arguments, Vasantbhai gave a clear
verdict, “Brother, promises might not be important for other
people in politics, but our promises are expressed in our life
values. We shall not be a bit pained if we lose the election, but a
breach in promise would tear apart the faith shown in us. We
must keep our word.” The visitor took his leave, but the words
of Vasantbhai had created a tempest in his heart. Influenced by
his dedication to values, he was motivated to think over this all,
and as a consequence, he became a leading worker of the Jana
Sangh within one year.

No Cheap Popularity, Not Far from Struggle
The reconstruction campaign was at its peak in Gujarat.

The successful programmes by the Jana Sangh, one after another,
had made the entire Gujarat’s atmosphere alive and lively. About
this time, the Communist Party in Gujarat announced the
Gujarat Bandh. As the intention of these people was suspicious,
the Jana Sangh did not approve of this decision. They were
apprehensive that if the campaign was controlled by some other
elements, then it might harm the interests of Gujarat. In such a
situation, the Jana Sangh thought it appropriate to keep silent.
This decision of the Jana Sangh created a little optimism in the
heart of Chimanbhai Patel, the then Chief Minister. He tried to
meet Vasantbhai. The meeting was settled. During the meeting,
Chimanbhai said, “Vasantbhai, if the Jana Sangh kept away from
the Gujarat Bandh, I have the necessary ability to deal with all
other people.” The response of Vasantbhai was given in clear
terms, “Whether the Jana Sangh supports the Gujarat Bandh or