Published by Aloto Naga | July 16, 2025

In the world of Indian politics, nothing captures attention like the dramatic transformation of public image — especially when a “tainted” leader becomes a “clean” reformer overnight. This phenomenon has become so common that opposition parties now sarcastically refer to it as the “Surf Excel effect”, accusing the BJP of operating a political washing machine that “cleans” accused leaders after they switch sides.

Several top politicians once hounded by agencies like the CBI, ED, and Income Tax Department now enjoy powerful positions — often just months after joining the BJP. Here’s a look at some of the most high-profile examples.

🧼 Top Politicians Who Became “Clean” After Joining BJP

1. Himanta Biswa Sarma (Assam)

• Allegations: Saradha scam, ULFA-linked extortion (TADA), recruitment and textbook scams.
• Before BJP: CBI interest and Congress infighting.
• After BJP: Made Chief Minister of Assam; all investigations dropped or ignored.

2. Suvendu Adhikari (West Bengal)

• Allegations: Narada sting operation, Saradha chit fund scam.
• Before BJP: Named in CBI and ED probes.
• After BJP: Became Leader of Opposition; no progress in cases.

3. Mukul Roy (West Bengal)

• Allegations: Narada bribery case, Saradha links.
• Before BJP: Facing CBI questioning.
• After BJP: Silence from all investigative agencies.

4. Ajit Pawar (Maharashtra)

• Allegations: ₹70,000 crore irrigation scam.
• Before BJP: ED investigations under UPA and post-2019.
• After BJP: Became Deputy CM again in 2023; ED stopped inquiries.

5. Narayan Rane (Maharashtra)

• Allegations: Criminal cases, assets investigation.
• Before BJP: Frequent raids and probes.
• After BJP: Appointed Union Minister; cases lost in bureaucratic fog.

6.  BS Yediyurappa (Karnataka)

• Allegations: Land scams, corruption during first term.
• Before return to BJP: Arrested, resigned.
• After BJP re-entry: All cases closed; resumed power as CM.

7.  Jitin Prasada (Uttar Pradesh)

• Allegations: Minor scam involving recruitment during Congress years.
• Before BJP: Under scrutiny.
• After BJP: Appointed cabinet minister in UP.

🎭 The Surf Excel Joke — More Than Just a Meme?

The phrase “BJP washing machine” has now become a standard attack line in Indian politics. Whether it’s from Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal, or Mamata Banerjee, the accusation remains the same: “CBI and ED are only active when you’re in the opposition.”

And the data seems to back it. In nearly every case mentioned above, investigations slowed or disappeared once the politician joined BJP — often within months.

Opposition leaders argue that this undermines public trust in institutions and gives the impression that loyalty to the ruling party is a shortcut to legal immunity.

📢 What This Means for Indian Democracy

The trend raises serious concerns:

• Is law enforcement selective?
• Are cases being used as tools for political pressure?
• And more worryingly — does switching sides come with a hidden promise of protection?

As investigations disappear and accused leaders rise, the lines between justice and politics continue to blur. Critics say what should be criminal accountability is now just another bargaining chip in the game of power.

📊 Key Takeaway