In the run-up to India’s general election, there’s a conspicuous absence of critical evaluation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the nation’s mainstream television channels and in most newspapers. With the election looming, which commences on Friday, India’s typically raucous media landscape has been notably subdued in its scrutiny of the incumbent government.
Traditionally, India’s elections are marked by fiery debates and extensive mudslinging across various media platforms. However, this time around, the bulk of criticism directed at Modi and the BJP is primarily found online, with some of it gaining significant traction in recent weeks.
YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, in a Hindi-language video garnering over 27 million views, has accused Modi of exhibiting dictatorial tendencies. Rathee cited instances of alleged silencing of critics, the use of federal investigation agencies to target the opposition, and the suppression of farmer protests as evidence to support his claims.
Joining the chorus of dissent is Neha Singh Rathore, a popular music video producer in the Bhojpuri language, who voices concerns about various issues plaguing the country in her songs. Rathore’s lyrics touch on topics such as cronyism, dubious electoral funding, unemployment, inflation, and alleged violence against minorities.
Numerous other voices critical of Modi’s government are active on platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, particularly in the Hindi heartland, which serves as the BJP’s stronghold.
Rathee, speaking from Germany where he currently resides, highlighted a growing disillusionment with traditional media outlets among the Indian populace. He pointed out that many people are turning to independent journalists on social media for a more nuanced understanding of pressing issues.
Despite the surge in online criticism, opinion polls continue to favor Modi and the BJP to secure victory in the upcoming election, buoyed by Modi’s consistently high approval ratings. The election is slated to be conducted in seven phases, with vote counting scheduled for June 4.
Gilles Verniers, a senior fellow at the Centre for Policy Research, noted that the online response to Modi’s critics indicates a growing appetite for critical content among certain segments of the population. However, he cautioned that this online discourse might not significantly sway undecided voters but could mobilize those already aligned with a particular political stance.
In rural areas like Sambalpur in Odisha, individuals like Puspanjali Sahu view social media journalists as the voice of the common people, providing an alternative narrative to counter the ruling party’s propaganda.
Acknowledging the influence of social media, the BJP has intensified its efforts to engage with online audiences, with Modi and his cabinet members actively meeting top social media influencers and gamers.
However, critics of the government on social media often face severe backlash, including online abuse and death threats. Ravish Kumar, a prominent political commentator, disclosed instances of receiving threats for questioning Modi and his government’s policies.
Despite the challenges and risks involved, voices critical of the government remain undeterred in their efforts to raise public awareness and hold those in power accountable. Ajit Anjum, a former TV journalist, affirmed his commitment to addressing public issues on social media platforms, irrespective of the prevailing political climate.