The Lede

Democracy and Controversy in the World's Largest Elections — With Surbhi Gupta and Kwangu Liwewe

Mar 29, 2024

Identity and Politics Researcher Surbhi Gupta and Political Commentator Kwangu Liwewe discuss key issues in India's upcoming elections, including Hindu nationalism, political funding controversies, and the arrest of opposition figures. They also explore wealth disparities, the relationship between corporates and the government, and the challenges of managing a massive voting population in India's democratic process.

29:36

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Episode guests

Surbhi Gupta

Kwangu Liwewe

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

India's commitment to democracy is reflected in its massive elections with 900 million voters participating over 44 days.

The rise of Hindu nationalism in India's politics has led to social tensions and discrimination against minority groups.

Deep dives

India's Extensive Electoral Process

India's democratic foundation is reflected in its elaborate electoral process, with 900 million registered voters participating in a 44-day polling period. The nation's history of consistent elections with high voter turnout showcases its commitment to democracy. Despite challenges like geographical complexities, India's democratic identity remains strong, fostering vibrant political engagement and debate.

Introduction

4min

India's Struggle with Hindu Nationalism and the Citizenship Amendments Act

6min

Political Party Funding in India and Recent Arrests

13min

Exploring Contrasts: Technology, Poverty, and Opulence in India

5min

Exploring the Relationship Between Corporates and the Government in Indian Politics

2min

In a year of elections across the globe, none will be bigger in scale than that in India, where nearly 1 billion people are eligible to vote. “In the seven decades since India got its independence, democracy has been its identity,” Surbhi Gupta tells Kwangu Liwewe on the first episode of Global Insights on The Lede.

Gupta and Liwewe discuss the various key issues in the upcoming elections, such as the rise of Hindu nationalism and controversies such as improper donations to major parties, as well as the arrest of key opposition figure Arvind Kejriwal.

Further listening:
India’s Political Hinduism — with Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay
The War on India’s Free Press — with Manisha Pande and Samar Halarnkar

Further reading:
The Ambani Gala Expands the Limits of the Big Fat Indian Wedding

Produced by Finbar Anderson

For more information go to newlinesmag.com/podcast