Elections offer citizens the authority to elect their leaders and influence their nation’s trajectory. However, in recent times, there has been growing apprehension about deceptive election tactics that erode the integrity of the electoral process. These dubious strategies encompass misinformation campaigns and endeavours to suppress voters, corroding faith in democratic institutions and jeopardizing the essence of representative governance.
Within the fervour of Indian electoral competitions, politicians often resort to such unethical methods. A prevalent malpractice involves exploiting religious and caste divisions for votes. Politicians leverage identity politics, fostering rifts within communities for electoral advantages. This not only exacerbates societal divisions but also undermines the principles of secularism and inclusivity. Many politicians employ the divisive tactic of catering exclusively to specific communities or interest groups, perpetuating a fractured political landscape that impedes the formulation of comprehensive policies for all. Cash distribution and voter bribery are common in Indian elections, with politicians offering cash, gifts, or other incentives for support. This compromises the democratic process, fostering a culture of corruption and subverting voting on informed choices. Incumbent politicians often misuse state resources, diverting government assets for their campaigns. This unfair advantage disrupts the level playing field.
Indian election campaigns frequently witness false propaganda and disinformation to tarnish opponents. Rumours, fake news, and doctored videos circulate on various media platforms, swaying public opinion and diminishing the credibility of the electoral process. The association between politics and criminal elements remains a significant concern, as politicians with criminal backgrounds secure party tickets, casting a shadow of criminality over the political landscape. Violations of the Model Code of Conduct are not uncommon during Indian election campaigns, with politicians frequently flouting the MCC through hate speech, false promises, and inflammatory rhetoric. Strengthening enforcement mechanisms is essential for strict adherence to the MCC.
Elections are imminent in India this year, and the BJP, as usual, is employing questionable methods to appeal to the Hindu majority. India’s electoral arena has witnessed the rise of disinformation campaigns, particularly on social media platforms. False narratives, misleading images, and fabricated stories often circulate, influencing public opinion and potentially impacting voter decisions. The extensive reach of social media makes it a powerful tool for those looking to manipulate the narrative. Voter suppression, aimed at obstructing specific groups from exercising their voting rights, is a concerning issue in India. Instances of voter intimidation, restrictive voting laws, and selective implementation of identification requirements have raised doubts about the inclusivity and fairness of the electoral process.
False election tactics also involve exploiting religious and communal sentiments. Politicians may employ divisive rhetoric to polarize communities, seeking to consolidate support within specific demographics. This strategy undermines secularism and also risks escalating tensions within society. Election campaigns often face allegations of illicit financial practices, including distributing cash, gifts, or other incentives. These tactics compromise the democratic process by undermining the idea of elections as a fair competition of ideas rather than a transactional exchange. The spread of fake news and rumours contributes to distorted public discourse and makes it difficult for voters to make informed decisions.
Recently, Modi inaugurated the Ram temple in Ayodhya, bringing back painful memories for Muslim residents. The Ram temple now stands on the site of the Babri Masjid, demolished by extremist Hindus in 1992. Ayodhya resident, Shahid, recounted the Babri Masjid’s destruction, stating, “On the day of the demolition, my father was set on fire by extremist Hindus…. But also my uncle and other relatives lost their lives.” Shahid noted that while the inauguration of the Ram Mandir was significant for Hindus, it left a void for the Muslim, as their mosque and connections were taken away. Shahid lamented that “the Mandir’s construction in the Mosque’s place has widened the gap between Muslims and Hindus.” Not only are Muslim mosques at risk, but Christian churches and Sikh gurdwaras also feel insecure. Modi’s timing of the temple inauguration, just weeks before the elections, is seen as an attempt to secure the support of the majority Hindus, showcasing his Hindutva and extremist approach.
Modi and the BJP are engaging in misinformation by crafting a self-fabricated narrative about the post-Pulwama attack. Former High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria has disclosed many secrets in his latest book, Anger Management. According to him, India had informed Pakistan about the readiness of its missiles. In fear of an imminent Indian missile attack, the Pakistani PM urgently sought communication with PM Modi to prevent a full-blown military crisis. The call was facilitated by then-Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mehmood, who contacted his counterpart in Delhi. These events unfolded a day after the Balakot airstrikes by the IAF on terror hideouts in Pakistan on 26 February 2019, in retaliation for a terrorist attack on Indian forces in Pulwama on February 14. The US and UK envoys to Delhi relayed that Pakistan was prepared to de-escalate and address India’s concerns about terrorism based on the information provided in India’s dossier. PM Modi, during a campaign speech, confirmed that it would have been a ‘Qatal ki Raat’ if Abhinandan had not been returned. The revelation during India’s election period raises concerns about the story’s misleading nature, highlighting the potentially malicious intentions of Modi and the BJP in seeking support.
Hindutva, rooted in the concept of cultural and national identity centred around Hinduism, has wielded significant influence in Indian politics. Under Modi’s leadership, the BJP has promoted Hindutva principles, raising concerns about the nation’s secular fabric. Modi’s tenure has witnessed an increased emphasis on religious symbolism, with public events such as the groundbreaking ceremony for Ayodha’s Ram Temple highlighting instances where religious symbolism takes centrestage. Such occurrences reinforce the perception of a government closely aligned with a specific religious identity. Modi’s administration has implemented changes that reflect a Hindu-centric perspective, including textbook revisions, appointments to cultural bodies, and shifts in curricular content. These changes have sparked concerns about the endorsement of a particular cultural and religious worldview.
The reality is evident on the global stage, and the Indian populace should take notice as well. Modi’s deceptions, and the BJP’s, are apparent, and citizens must demonstrate maturity during the forthcoming elections. A nation like India, which prides itself on being secular and civilized, should consider banning politicians and parties delivering nothing but false promises, superficial gestures, failures, extremism, and international embarrassment.
The protection of cows, considered sacred in Hinduism, has been a contentious issue. The enforcement of stricter laws on cow slaughter and the vigilante actions of certain groups have contributed to a charged atmosphere. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and discussions surrounding the National Register of Citizens (NRC) have been sources of controversy, disproportionately affecting minority communities, particularly Muslims, and raising questions about inclusivity and equality under the law. Communal tensions have erupted sporadically, prompting concerns about social cohesion. The Hindutva rhetoric has contributed to an environment where religious minorities feel marginalized.
Modi has been a polarizing figure, drawing criticism for his leadership style and policy decisions. He has a;so been accused of falsehoods.
As for the international scenario, the Modi government has faced numerous setbacks. India has found itself entangled in allegations of engaging in terrorism. A few months ago, Canada revealed its active pursuit of credible accusations linking Indian government agents to the assassination of a Sikh separatist leader in British Columbia. This development severely strained diplomatic relations between the two. In an emergency statement to the House of Commons, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau staunchly asserted that any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen constitutes “an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty.” The victim, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, 45, was fatally shot outside a Sikh temple on June 18 in Surrey, a Vancouver suburb known for its substantial Sikh population. Nijjar openly advocated for a Sikh homeland in the form of an independent Khalistani state and had been labelled a “terrorist” by India in July 2020. Trudeau conveyed that Canadian security agencies have actively pursued credible allegations pointing to a potential connection between government agents from India and Nijjar’s demise. He indicated that he had directly raised the murder issue with Modi during the G20 summit in New Delhi and urged the Indian government to collaborate with Canada in thoroughly investigating the matter. Canada also took the unprecedented step of expelling India’s top intelligence agent stationed in the country.
Furthermore, a court in Qatar imposed the death penalty on eight former Indian navy personnel, accusing them of espionage for Israel. The individuals sentenced included Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Rajesh. All of these ex-naval personnel were employed by Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a company owned by an Oman Air Force ex-officer, responsible for providing training and various services to Qatar’s armed forces and security agencies.
The reality is evident on the global stage, and the Indian populace should take notice as well. Modi’s deceptions, and the BJP’s, are apparent, and citizens must demonstrate maturity during the forthcoming elections. A nation like India, which prides itself on being secular and civilized, should consider banning politicians and parties delivering nothing but false promises, superficial gestures, failures, extremism, and international embarrassment.
