The Dangerous Intersection of Media and Politics in India: A Threat to Democracy

After his speeches targeting Muslims, Modi declared recently that he did not mean what he was reported to have said.

In recent times, the landscape of Indian media and politics has taken a disturbing turn. Statements from influential leaders and their echo in media outlets have stoked communal tensions and propagated harmful stereotypes. This synergy between political rhetoric and media narratives is not just damaging the social fabric of the nation but also eroding the very foundations of democracy.

Politicians' Rhetoric: Sowing Seeds of Division

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks at an election rally, suggesting that Muslims produce more babies and consume disproportionate resources, are deeply troubling. Such statements are not only factually incorrect but also dangerously divisive. They perpetuate a harmful stereotype that frames a minority community as a burden on the nation. This rhetoric, aimed at garnering electoral support through fear and prejudice, undermines the inclusive principles of Indian democracy.

Media Amplification: From 'Godi' to Riotous Media

The media’s role in this scenario has been far from neutral. Instead of questioning and critically analyzing such statements, many mainstream media outlets have echoed and amplified them. This phenomenon, often referred to as 'Godi media'—a term implying media that sits in the lap of power—has evolved into what can be termed 'riotous media.' Media houses are not merely biased; they are actively participating in spreading communal hatred and misinformation.

For instance, in the case of Mukhtar Ansari, a controversial figure, some media narratives have linked his community’s eating habits to incidences of food poisoning, again targeting Muslims with baseless and inflammatory claims. Such coverage goes beyond bias; it is reckless and incendiary.

The Role of Anchors, Editors, and Reporters

Anchors, editors, and reporters are at the forefront of this transformation. Anchors, sitting comfortably in their studios, have taken to sensationalizing news, often with a communal slant. Editors, who should be gatekeepers of truth and integrity, are increasingly publishing propaganda that aligns with divisive political agendas. Reporters in the field are facing the brunt of public outrage, often being accused of peddling lies and communal discord.

This trend is alarming. It signifies a shift from journalism’s core mission—to inform and educate the public—to becoming tools of political maneuvering and social fragmentation. When the media stops questioning power and starts parroting its divisive rhetoric, democracy suffers.

Is Modi navigating a complex duality, or is he strategically managing public perception?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decade in power presents a multifaceted narrative, with three distinct portrayals of his leadership and rhetoric. Initially, Modi appeared as a unifier with his inclusive slogan, "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas" (Everybody's support, everybody's development, everybody's trust), aimed at bridging gaps between communities. He encouraged Muslims to embrace both religious and modern education, symbolized by holding the Koran in one hand and a computer in the other.

However, another narrative of Modi’s tenure shows a more divisive approach. Throughout his second term, Modi has made numerous speeches with direct or indirect references to Muslims, often portraying them in a negative light. He frequently alludes to Mughals and meat-eating, which are culturally associated with Muslims, framing them as alien to Hinduism. He has also compared the Congress party's election manifesto to the Muslim League’s agenda before Independence and suggested that job quotas meant for Hindu backward castes were being given to Muslims. In some speeches, he has claimed that wealth and resources are being unfairly redistributed to Muslims, further fueling communal tensions.

Journalists covering these speeches reported that Modi’s rhetoric targets Muslims, though he denies these accusations, claiming he would be unfit for office if he were anti-Muslim. Yet, his mentions of "infiltrators" alongside references to Congress policies aimed at minorities, especially Muslims, suggest otherwise.

Modi’s contradictions raise questions about his true intentions: is he merely performing damage control, or is he deliberately polarizing voters? His statements often seem crafted to incite communal sentiments while maintaining plausible deniability.

The BJP’s actions under Modi reflect this polarizing approach. The party has minimal Muslim representation, exemplified by the absence of Muslim members in the Uttar Pradesh legislature. The BJP's rhetoric frames Congress’s policies of inclusion as "appeasement" of Muslims, exploiting misunderstandings about the Constitution's provisions for other backward classes (OBCs), which include some Muslim sections. This has led to political sparring that often descends into bigotry.

This situation worries liberal thinkers and diplomats from Western democracies, but the BJP’s strategy seems to resonate with many voters in India’s Hindi heartland. The opposition struggles to effectively counter these narratives, often playing into BJP’s hands by appearing to defend minority rights in ways that can be easily misrepresented.

On the global stage, Modi's image as a leader who promotes "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (The world is a family) contrasts sharply with his domestic polarizing tactics. However, in a world where other leaders are also engaging in controversial actions, Modi’s double standards may not significantly impact his international standing.

Supporters of Modi and the BJP view modern liberals not as autonomous thinkers but as agents influenced by Western ideologies. Modi's political strategy, whether it results in continued power or not, ensures he retains significant influence and status. If he secures a third term, his political authority may overshadow previous controversies; if he loses, his legacy will likely remain intact as a powerful and polarizing figure in Indian politics.

"Even Hindus have many children," Modi told an interviewer, claiming he would be unfit for office if he targeted Muslims. However, by mentioning "infiltrators" alongside Congress leader Manmohan Singh's support for underprivileged minorities, especially Muslims, Modi indirectly alluded to Muslims.

References

The Wire. (2021). Communal Rhetoric and Its Impact on Society. Retrieved from thewire.in

The Indian Express. (2022). Media Bias and the Erosion of Public Trust. Retrieved from indianexpress.com

BBC News. (2023). How Media and Politics Fuel Communal Tensions in India. Retrieved from bbc.com

The Quint. (2024). After his speeches targeting Muslims, Modi declared recently that he did not mean what he was reported to have said. Retrieved from TheQuint

By critically examining the intertwined roles of media and politics in propagating communal narratives, we can strive toward a more informed and cohesive society.

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Warm Regards,

Sahil Reshi

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"True democracy flourishes when all voices are heard and respected. Division and hate harm not just Muslims, but the unity and progress of the entire nation."

-Faiz Ah Faiz