In 2024, there will be nearly 70 elections held around the world, making it a significant election year globally. Some of the countries holding elections include Russia, America, Indonesia, Pakistan, and India.
The elections in Russia, Indonesia, and Pakistan have already taken place, while India and America are preparing for theirs.
Interestingly, the Indian general election has received more attention than the American presidential election, making it a unique situation.
The Indian general election is scheduled to take place in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, with vote counting starting on June 4 and representatives being appointed for 552 seats.
Asian heat in spring
India’s national elections, held in the spring, are considered to be the world’s largest democratic event with approximately one billion eligible voters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains a prominent figure, with his popularity at an all-time high during this election. At 73 years old, he is the shining star of the ruling BJP.
Over the past decade, there have been significant changes in Indian governance, with Modi emerging as a figure in the parliamentary system and becoming a symbol of India.
His unique characteristic of facing every occasion with charm and enthusiasm has made him a distinctive symbol of the BJP’s success in achieving great victories in the 2014 and 2019 elections, making India a world power.
Great communicator
Modi is a highly trusted leader in India due to his effective communication skills and charismatic personality. He has won the hearts of people by connecting with them emotionally and his eloquence has been an important factor in his success.
Modi has a unique communication style that has captured the attention and interest of not only Indians but also the world. He is particularly impressive in his opening speeches and his ability to structure his speeches coherently.
Modi has a special attraction in politics due to his ability to pose for photographs and his top-notch communication skills, which allow him to convey emotions effectively.
He can make a gathering laugh and move at once, and even shed tears in public without being seen as personality less. Modi’s clothes are also noteworthy as he has expanded his wardrobe from modern wear to traditional Indian wear, which adds to his glamorous appeal.
Foresight plans
Modi’s vision and meticulous planning have captured the world’s attention. Critics suggest that his appointment as Prime Minister is the result of a comprehensive plan.
He became the Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2002 and was elected Prime Minister of India twice. However, he assumed the role of Chief Minister in Gujarat amidst anti-Muslim violence across the state.
Two years after becoming Prime Minister, Modi made a controversial announcement of demonetising high-value currency notes.
The decision aimed to kerb corruption, black marketeering, and fake currency exchanges but resulted in long queues at banks, business impact, and a shortage of money in the country.
His performance was severely criticised, but the end result was largely accepted by the majority of India.
Modi is a unique leader who has implemented crucial plans for India. He addresses the nation once a month on the radio, and the Indian people have a keen interest in his storytelling.
It is a challenging task to gain high recognition from the people as a leader for 10 years, but Modi has accomplished it with ease. Additionally, he has a keen interest in yoga and enjoys participating in it with people of all ages.
Modi is a challenge to the power of the media
Modi’s handling of the media has faced criticism. He has shown reluctance to hold press conferences since his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, and journalists’ questions are often left unanswered.
Despite this, he has managed to control the media effectively. However, his policy towards the media has also been scrutinised, and even now he rarely responds to journalists’ enquiries.
Under Prime Minister Modi, some have observed a disregard for freedom of speech in the country.
The Indian press has been accused of being under serious threat since Modi came to power, and journalists are constantly making errors.
However, it is clear that Modi is not influenced by the media, which has gained power as the fourth government.
India’s ranking on press freedom indicators has fallen, as per the 2023 report, to 161 out of 180 countries. Recently, the Modi government proposed setting up a special unit to monitor social media and stop fake news, which has sparked a strong conversation in India. Nonetheless, the high level of people’s trust in Modi suggests that such situations are contained.
A break in family rule
Family governance is a prevalent issue in government systems, particularly in South Asian countries such as India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
However, Narendra Modi stands out as a leader who is actively fighting against family rule in India. Being a self-made character has been a significant factor in his popularity among the Indian people.
His efforts to introduce a new way of leadership, one that is not based on familial politics, have earned him positive attitudes. Modi comes from a modest family background, far from the elite political circles of Delhi, and is highly respected.
He remembers his childhood days when he used to sell tea with his father in a tea shop at Vadnagar railway station. Growing up with four unknown siblings, Modi got married at the age of 18, but no further details are available about this event.
The Future of Asia and the Indian General Election
India is gearing up for a general election and the two popular leaders, Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi, are expected to take part in it. Modi, who is seeking his third term, has a vast range of experiences, making him a formidable opponent.
On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi is an impressive leader, but the conflicts of opinion between the opposition groups have slowed down his progress. With ambitious political reforms, Gandhi hopes to become the next Prime Minister. The Indian general election is unique and significant as it will determine the future of Asia.
