Is India Changing Very Rapidly Under PM Modi?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been at the helm of India since 2014, but his tenure has been a topic of much debate and scrutiny. His government has implemented significant changes, often pointing to economic growth, while critics argue that such growth is superficial and at the cost of democratic values and human rights.

Transformative yet Controversial

Modi's tenure has seen various measures that have purportedly bridged the corruption gap, but have also been criticized for exacerbating it. The government has employed a range of tactics, from bonding and corrupting funds to camouflaging bribery, all under the guise of eliminating corruption. Yet, the corrupt practices continue through legal loopholes like the Electoral Bond.

Dividing Society

A major critique of Modi's rule has been his division of citizens. By promoting division under the pretense of religion and caste, the government has exploited communal tensions. Legally sanctioned corruption through measures like the Electoral Bond and the tampering of democratic processes for electoral gain have been hallmarks of his tenure.

Modi's Ingenious Strategies: A Masterstroke in Lakshadweep

However, Modi has been known for his strategic moves to consolidate power and influence. A recent example involves his masterful portrayal in Lakshadweep, when a single picture conveyed multiple messages:

It sent a subtle message to the Maldives: 'If you withdraw your military forces, I will ensure that tourism from Maldives shifts to Lakshadweep.' It was a clear message to the opposition: 'The simple and clean image I present stands in stark contrast to the excess and extravagance of certain personalities in the past.' It was an encouragement to Indians: 'India is so beautiful, we should capitalize on its beauty by supporting local tourism.'

Challenges in Economic and Social Metrics

Despite the rhetoric of growth, several economic and social metrics paint a different picture. Population growth, unemployment rates, and a rise in superstitions have overshadowed the economic progress. India, ranked 5th in the world economy, is ironically 111 out of 125 countries in the Global Hunger Index. The economic growth is of questionable quality, with more tax money being spent on building statues and religious infrastructure than on productive initiatives.

Democracy and Human Rights Under Siege

The transformation from democracy to autocracy has been gradual and insidious. The tax money is increasing but not accounted for, and the borrowing from international sources is not disclosed. This has allowed the Modi government to focus more on creating a status and religious rhetoric than on actual governance. Water scarcity, due to increased agricultural needs and droughts, is a pressing issue, with the lack of drinking water becoming a reality. The erosion of democracy and rights for individual party interests is evident. The rupee's value has fallen, reaching 84 against the dollar, and hunger index has worsened, with India ranking 111 in the world.

Impact on Society and Governance

There has been a rise in human rights violations due to poor administration. Criminal elements are being integrated into the BJP party, and judicial processes are being biased. Election campaigning has become a farce, with the machinery unfairly influencing public opinion. The atmosphere of unrest and enmity among different political parties is a direct consequence of these actions.

Conclusion

The question remains: Is India really advancing under Modi, or is it embroiled in a dystopian environment? The lack of tangible progress in key areas of governance demonstrates that the promises of rapid change have not been fulfilled in practice. The path ahead requires a reevaluation of policies and a focus on grassroots development, critical governance, and respect for human rights.