Last summer, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared the stage with President Biden at the White House, championing India’s democracy as a bastion of equality. Fast forward to the present, and Modi finds himself under fire for remarks made during an election rally that stirred controversy and reignited debates about the state of democracy in the country.
Addressing a crowd in northwest India, Modi referred to Muslims as “infiltrators,” sparking outrage among critics who labeled it as hate speech. This stark contrast between Modi’s global rhetoric on pluralism and his domestic anti-Muslim stance has raised eyebrows and drawn sharp criticism.
Modi’s vision for India has become increasingly clear over the past decade, marked by a push towards Hindu nationalism and the advancement of his party’s ideals. From inaugurating Hindu temples on contested sites to cracking down on opposition voices, Modi’s leadership has polarized the nation like never before.
Despite being hailed as a popular leader with sky-high approval ratings, Modi’s critics argue that his politics prioritize majoritarianism over the welfare of all citizens. With unemployment, education, and social welfare issues taking a backseat in political discourse, India stands deeply divided as it heads into what is projected to be the world’s most expensive election.
As Modi’s government tightens its grip on power, concerns over the erosion of democratic norms and institutions have intensified. The crackdown on opposition figures, allegations of financial impropriety, and the controversial citizenship law that discriminates against Muslims have raised serious doubts about the integrity of the electoral process.
Amidst mounting criticism from both domestic and international quarters, including the Biden administration, India finds itself at a crossroads. The upcoming elections will not only test the resilience of its democracy but also determine the kind of nation it aspires to be – one that upholds the principles of pluralism and freedom or one that veers towards authoritarianism with democratic trappings.
With the world watching closely, the stakes have never been higher for Modi’s India as it grapples with its democratic identity amidst a sea of challenges and controversies.
