The Dual Path of Narendra Modi: India's Economic Ascent and the Perils of Sectarian Politics

 

Despite India's impressive economic growth under Modi's leadership, becoming the world's fifth-largest economy, the rising tide of Hindu nationalism threatens to undermine the very fabric of its pluralistic society.

In a nation as diverse and complex as India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership presents a striking paradox. His tenure, marked by a juxtaposition of economic modernization against a backdrop of rising Hindu nationalism, has raised critical concerns about the future trajectory of the country. On January 22, 2024, a significant event unfolded in the political and religious history of India, as Narendra Modi presided over the inauguration of a $220 million Hindu temple in Ayodhya. This event, more than a religious ceremony, signaled the beginning of Modi's campaign for a third term. It represented a tangible departure from the secular ideals upheld by India's Supreme Court in 1994, which emphasized the separation of politics and religion.

The temple, rising majestically on the grounds where a historic mosque once stood, stands as a potent symbol of a profound ideological shift within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This site, revered as the birthplace of the Hindu deity Ram, embodies the party's transition from a platform of secular governance to one that prioritizes Hindu-first principles. This monumental shift is most vividly personified in the figure of Narendra Modi, the party's leader and India's Prime Minister. Modi, a controversial figure entangled in the grim legacy of the 2002 Gujarat riots, has seen his role evolve over the years. Initially embroiled in these events, he was subsequently exonerated by the judiciary. However, this acquittal has not deterred his increasing alignment with Hindu nationalism. This alignment is not just a personal transformation but is emblematic of a broader political and cultural realignment under his leadership, where religious identity and politics have become increasingly intertwined, steering India towards a future where secular and pluralistic values are being reevaluated and redefined in the context of a dominant Hindu narrative.

Contrasting this religious fervor is India's economic narrative under Modi's leadership. As the fastest-growing major economy and the fifth-largest globally, India has witnessed significant advancements in infrastructure and technology. Modi's vision for India encompasses not just religious dominance but also economic prosperity. However, this duality raises questions about the long-term implications of such a governance model.

During Modi's tenure, there has been a noticeable empowerment of the more radical factions within the BJP, a development that has significantly contributed to the escalation of anti-Muslim sentiments and policies across India. This empowerment is perhaps most starkly reflected in the introduction of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), a piece of legislation widely criticized for its discriminatory stance against Muslims. The CAA has been perceived as a legislative tool to marginalize Muslim citizens, further deepening the religious divides in the country. Moreover, this period has also seen a disturbing increase in mob violence targeting the Muslim community, incidents that have not only caused loss of life and property but have also sown seeds of fear and mistrust among the populace. These events, occurring under Modi's leadership, have not only intensified existing religious tensions but have also raised serious questions about the commitment of the current government to uphold India's longstanding tradition of secularism and religious pluralism. This shift towards a more exclusive, Hindu-centric approach in governance and social policy represents a fundamental challenge to the very ethos of India's diverse and inclusive democracy.

Under Modi's administration, India has also witnessed a concerning trend that points to an erosion of its liberal democratic foundations. Key pillars of democracy such as the media, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and opposition parties have increasingly come under pressure, facing challenges that range from legal hurdles to outright intimidation. This phenomenon indicates a shift towards a more authoritarian style of governance, diverging from India's traditionally vibrant and open democratic practices. The media, once considered a fiercely independent watchdog, now contends with allegations of censorship and biased reporting, fueled by political pressures and a growing climate of self-censorship. NGOs, particularly those involved in human rights and environmental advocacy, have reported heightened scrutiny and regulatory roadblocks, hampering their ability to operate effectively. Opposition parties, essential for a healthy democracy, have found themselves marginalized, with their leaders often targeted through legal and political means. This systematic undermining of democratic institutions, occurring alongside significant economic achievements, creates a complex and contradictory narrative for India. While the nation strides forward economically, these strides are shadowed by the retreating steps in democratic freedoms and civil liberties. This precarious balance, where economic growth coexists with a shrinking space for democratic engagement and dissent, poses a significant challenge to the future trajectory of India as a vibrant democracy.

Amidst the backdrop of political turmoil and social unrest under Modi's administration, the Indian economy has demonstrated a remarkable degree of resilience. In recent quarters, the nation has experienced robust growth, with figures exceeding 7%, signaling a strong rebound and potential for continued economic expansion. This impressive growth trajectory can be attributed to several key developments. Significant improvements in infrastructure have laid a solid foundation for industrial and commercial activities, enhancing connectivity and efficiency across the country. The banking sector has also seen reforms, leading to a more stable and reliable financial environment conducive to investment and growth. Additionally, comprehensive tax reforms have streamlined processes, reducing complexities and encouraging a more business-friendly climate. Despite these positive indicators, India continues to grapple with persistent challenges that could hinder long-term sustainable growth. One of the most pressing issues is the inadequacy of job creation, especially in a country with a large and growing youth population. The education system, which plays a crucial role in preparing a skilled workforce, remains deficient, with concerns over quality and accessibility. Moreover, the increasing influence of corporate entities in policy-making and economic spheres raises questions about equitable growth and the protection of public interests. These challenges underscore the need for a balanced approach to economic development, one that not only focuses on quantitative growth metrics but also addresses the qualitative aspects of development, ensuring inclusive progress for all sections of society.

The intertwining of economic growth with a divisive religious agenda raises questions about their long-term compatibility. While Modi's first two terms saw economic advancement alongside his religious agenda, a further tilt towards Hindu nationalism in a third term could disrupt this balance, threatening India's economic stability and social harmony.

The BJP's focus on the Hindi-speaking north, potentially at the expense of the industrialized south, could heighten regional disparities. The push for Hindutva in areas where it holds little appeal, coupled with increased power concentration, might ignite conflicts over internal migration, tax revenues, and political representation.

It is worth pointing out here that economic stability, a cornerstone for any nation's growth and prosperity, hinges crucially on the sound and prudent management by experienced and respected technocrats. These individuals, armed with expertise and an understanding of the global economic landscape, are essential for crafting policies that ensure sustainable and balanced growth. In contrast, governance driven by party ideologues often prioritizes political agendas over economic pragmatism, leading to decisions that may not align with best economic practices or the broader interests of the nation. Under Modi's administration, India is basically  veering towards a more authoritarian style of governance, characterized by unpredictable and unilateral decision-making. Such a shift poses significant risks to the country's economic environment. It could potentially deter foreign investors, who typically seek stable and predictable markets for long-term investments. The unpredictability and perceived capriciousness in policy-making could lead to a loss of investor confidence, which is detrimental to the country's economic health. Additionally, this shift threatens the integrity of India's institutions, which are the bedrock of its democratic framework. Institutional integrity is vital for maintaining checks and balances in the system, ensuring that economic policies are not only formulated judiciously but are also implemented effectively and transparently. The erosion of these institutions could lead to a concentration of power, further exacerbating the challenges of governance and potentially leading to economic mismanagement.

As Modi stands on the threshold of a third term, his past as a pragmatic administrator in Gujarat reminds us of the necessary balance to realize his vision of India as a global power. The future of 1.4 billion people and the prospects for a burgeoning economy hinge on his ability to maintain this delicate balance. The challenge lies in exercising restraint over abandon, a crucial factor not just for India's economic progress but also for preserving its secular and democratic ethos.