Echoes of Authoritarianism: Modi’s Assault on Democratic Values

In the landscape of contemporary Indian politics, a significant transformation is underway, one that merits urgent attention and reflection.

In the landscape of contemporary Indian politics, a significant transformation is underway, one that merits urgent attention and reflection. The current prime minister of India, Narendra Modi’s leadership, once seen as a beacon of hope and reform, has increasingly started resembling authoritarianism, jeopardizing the foundational tenets of democracy. This opinion piece digs into the dangers posed by Modi’s regime and the implications for the Indian society as a whole.

Modi’s ascent to power has been marked by the construction of a robust cult of personality, akin to the propaganda strategies employed by authoritarian regimes throughout history. Much like Leni Riefenstahl’s work, Modi’s administration leverages filmmakers such as Vivek Agnihotri and Sudipto Sen, movies like “The Kashmir Files” (2022), “The Kerala Story,” (2023) and the vaccine war to disseminate a narrative that glorifies the Prime Minister are a few examples. There is a relationship of convenience between Bollywood and the Indian government. In recent times, movies dealing with polarizing contemporary political issues like “The Tashkent Files” (2019) and “72 Hoorain” (2023) have become a trend. These movies evidently modeled themselves as campaign runners for the 2024 general elections for the BJP and allies. Propaganda films are, thus, mobilizing Indian voters, especially the youth, toward voting for vested political interests. This narrative often glosses over critical issues, presenting a sanitized version of reality that paints Modi as an infallible leader.

State-sponsored awards and accolades create an environment where loyalty is rewarded and dissent is punished. The distribution of national honors in India has, at times, appeared to favor individuals and works that align with the government’s narratives. For example, films promoting initiatives like the National Film Awards which promotes Modi’s narratives of anti-Muslimism and anti-Pakistani sentiments, highlighting a preference for projects that echo the government’s policies. Similarly, the Padma Awards have occasionally been granted to individuals who support or publicly praise Modi’s leadership like Kangana Ranaut, Adnan Sami and Mithun Chakraborty, suggesting a political dimension to the selection process. Cultural and literary awards have also been given to authors and artists such as Prasoon Joshi lyricist and writer and Anupam Kher with multiple projects aligning with the government’s vision or promotes its achievements. Filmmakers and artists who align with the regime enjoy privileges, while those who dare to criticize face social and professional repercussions. This approach not only stifles freedom of expression but also fosters a culture of fear among creatives, leading to self-censorship and the deterioration of artistic integrity.

The systematic silencing of dissenting voices is alarming. Social media platforms have become battlegrounds for free expression, where critiques of the government are often met with aggressive censorship. The removal of the “Bolta Hindustan” YouTube channel and the suspension of accounts associated with farmers’ protests highlight the regime’s intent to quash any form of opposition. By blocking critical voices, the government creates an echo chamber that distorts public perception, undermining the very essence of democratic dialogue.

This environment of fear is exacerbated by the treatment of journalists and activists who challenge the government’s narratives. During the 2021 farmers’ protests, journalists like Rajdeep Sardesai and Siddharth Varadarajan faced sedition charges and accusations of promoting communal disharmony for their coverage. The Caravan magazine also encountered multiple sedition cases for its reporting on sensitive issues, including the protests. Additionally, Karnataka’s Power TV faced raids and legal actions after airing stories alleging corruption by local politicians, highlighting growing pressures on media freedom in India. Individuals like journalist Rana Ayub, Arfa Khanum Sherwani and singer Neha Singh Rathod have also faced vitriol and threats online, a chilling reminder of the risks associated with dissent. This suppression not only undermines democratic ideals but also fosters an environment where citizens are afraid to speak out, inhibiting public discourse.

A hallmark of authoritarian regimes is the systematic infiltration and control of independent institutions. Under Modi, once-proud pillars of democracy, such as the judiciary and the Election Commission, have increasingly come under the influence of the ruling party. The 2019 Ayodhya verdict, favoring Hindu parties, was seen by some as influenced by the ruling party’s agenda. Concerns have also been raised about the arbitrary use of sedition laws against journalists and activists, with inconsistent judicial responses undermining free speech. The delay in hearing petitions on electoral bonds, which allegedly benefit the ruling party, has raised questions about transparency. Additionally, the prolonged detention of activists in the Bhima Koregaon case and allegations of political interference in judicial appointments have further fueled concerns about judicial independence. In addition to these examples, the elevation of Jay Shah to the head of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is emblematic of a broader trend where merit is secondary to loyalty. This shift creates a homogenous environment that dismisses dissenting opinions and expertise, leading to governance that prioritizes allegiance over competence. The ramifications of this trend are profound, as independent institutions are critical for ensuring checks and balances in a democratic society, and compromises on such lawful bodies will lead to corruption resultantly leading to increased crime rate in India.

Modi’s economic policies, often branded as necessary reforms, have disproportionately favored a select few neglecting the broader population. The close ties between the Modi administration and crony capitalists like Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani raise ethical concerns about governance. Critics argue that Modi’s policies are designed to enrich a handful of industrialists, exacerbating economic disparities and undermining the principle of equitable development. Furthermore, the term “Modinomics” has emerged to describe Modi’s economic approach, characterized by policies that prioritize corporate interests over the welfare of the common citizen. This focus on crony capitalism fosters resentment among marginalized communities, exacerbating existing social divisions. Moreover, it distracts citizens from pressing economic issues, such as unemployment and inflation, which remain significant challenges for the country.

In a democracy, unity in diversity is essential for progress. However, the current atmosphere in India encourages division, making it difficult for communities to engage in constructive dialogue. This fragmentation threatens the stability of their nation, as citizens become increasingly isolated in their beliefs, perpetuating a cycle of polarization. As India grapples with these profound challenges, it is imperative for citizens to recognize the threat posed by Modi’s authoritarian tendencies. While some may argue that a strong leader is necessary for progress, history teaches us that unchecked power leads to the erosion of democratic values and intensified corruption. It is crucial for citizens to demand accountability, transparency, and adherence to the principles that uphold the democratic foundation of this great nation. The fight for democracy in India is not merely a political struggle; it is a moral imperative. Citizens must rise to protect their rights, uphold the Constitution, and defend the institutions that safeguard democracy. A collective effort is needed to reclaim the democratic space that is increasingly under threat, ensuring that India remains a vibrant, inclusive society.

Summra Hamid
Summra Hamid
Research Fellow Balochistan Think Tank Network, Quetta.