166. Vladimir Putin, Narendra Modi, and absolute populist power
Aug 29, 2023
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Vladimir Putin and Narendra Modi discuss Wagner operations in Africa and Modi's dangerous rhetoric. The hosts touch on dancing training, a mysterious plane explosion involving Putin, Modi's leadership style and policies, and Modi's defeats in Southern India's state elections. They also reflect on an interview with an AI expert and share dream interview choices.
Nadine Dorries' resignation and planned by-election coincide with the release of her book.
Narendra Modi's governance is marked by populist policies, controversial citizenship acts, and tensions with religious minorities.
Narendra Modi faces challenges in Southern India, where progressive and liberal sentiments are growing, and opposition parties have gained ground.
Deep dives
The resignation of Nadine Dorries
Nadine Dorries has resigned from her position and plans to hold a by-election to coincide with the release of her book.
The rise of Narendra Modi
Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, has been in power since 2014 and is associated with the Hindu nationalist party. His governance has been marked by populist policies, controversial citizenship acts, and tensions with religious minorities.
Controversial "shadowy elite" claims
Nadine Dorries has claimed that a shadowy elite is undermining prime ministers, suggesting a conspiracy. This viewpoint has been criticized as misinformation and harmful to democracy.
Challenges and defeats
Narendra Modi has faced challenges and defeats in Southern India, where more progressive and liberal sentiments are growing. State elections have become increasingly important, and opposition parties have gained ground against Modi's party.
Reflections on interviews and perceptions
Rory Stewart reflects on a recent interview and highlights the challenges of being portrayed in certain ways by journalists. He emphasizes the importance of remaining cautious and understanding the motives behind interview questions.
What will happen to Wagner operations in Africa now that Yevgeny Prigozhin is dead? How dangerous is Modi's rhetoric for India and the world? Who has had a bigger impact on the constituents of Mid Bedfordshire in the last few months - Nadine Dorries or Darren Bent?
Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more on today’s episode of The Rest Is Politics.
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