The End of Populism in the World’s Largest Democracy? — With Shruti Kapila and Surbhi Gupta
Jun 21, 2024
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Cambridge academic Shruti Kapila and New Lines host Surbhi Gupta discuss the Indian election results and the future of democracy in India. They explore Modi's campaign, the evolution of Dalit politics, and the revival of the Congress party. The podcast examines the implications of the elections on Indian politics, emphasizing the shift towards a more balanced power structure and the ongoing contest of ideas between political parties.
The Indian election results indicate a halt to Modi's strongman populism, emphasizing the need for coalition governance.
The defeat in Ayodhya challenges Modi's Hindu nationalist agenda, reflecting a shift in public sentiment.
Deep dives
Indian Election 2024: Analysis of Modi's Performance
Despite expectations of a landslide victory for PM Narendra Modi in the Indian election, his party fell short of the absolute majority predicted. The election results indicated a halt to Modi's strongman populism, showcasing the fragility of his power and highlighting the need to work with coalition partners for governance. The shift towards coalition politics challenges Modi's authority and emphasizes the necessity of negotiation and compromise in the diverse Indian political landscape.
Rise and Fall of Modi's Hindu Nationalist Project
Modi's controversial project to build the Ram Temple faced a setback as the constituency of the temple elected a candidate opposed to his Hindu nationalist agenda. This election outcome symbolically dented the inevitability of a Hindu-first India that Modi advocated for, indicating a challenge to his divisive political narrative. The defeat in Ayodhya suggests a shift in public sentiment against exclusive Hindu nationalism in Indian politics.
Significance of Dalit Politics and Congress Revival
The election highlighted the growing importance of Dalit politics as marginalized communities like the Dalits demonstrated political agency through strategic voting. The Congress party, known for ideological clarity and mobilization efforts, experienced a revival, adopting a social justice program emphasizing diversity and equity. Rahul Gandhi's strategic political initiatives and the party's organizational restructuring contributed to its resurgence in Indian politics.
Implications for Public Debate and Global Perception of Indian Politics
Post-election, there is a sense of relief in the media and public discourse, signaling a potential easing of restrictions on public debate in India. Legislative agendas on digital regulation and criminal law will likely shape the nature of public discourse. The competitive democratic landscape in India offers global audiences insights into the contest of ideas shaping the nation's future, hinting at a shift from the era of populism and posing a democratic challenge for the future of the country.
On this week’s podcast, Cambridge University academic Shruti Kapila, author of “Violent Fraternity: Indian Political Thought in the Global Age,” sits down with New Lines’ Surbhi Gupta to discuss the shock Indian election result and what it means for the future of the world’s largest democracy.