NEW DEHLI: Critics have raised concerns over Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s use of taxpayer money for self-promotion in the lead-up to the 2024 parliamentary elections. This controversy has drawn attention from various quarters, with allegations of extravagant spending on advertising campaigns and the transformation of the recent G-20 summit into a platform for political campaigning.
Former diplomat-turned-politician Mani Shankar Aiyar, citing an unidentified former finance secretary, estimated the cost of advertising to exceed Rs 1,000 crore. Aiyar criticized Modi’s self-proclaimed status as a global leader, comparing it to his contentious interpretation of Indian history, which has been used to target religious minorities.
The Associated Press conducted a critical analysis of the preparations for the G-20 summit and the narrative surrounding Prime Minister Modi. They highlighted the extensive use of giant posters and billboards on major roads in New Delhi, prominently featuring Prime Minister Modi’s image. This display was described as an overt tribute to the populist prime minister and a staunch Hindu nationalist.
A CNBC correspondent reporting from New Delhi emphasized that the G-20 event seemed to be overshadowed by Prime Minister Modi, with the streets of Delhi filled with his posters. Critics argued that this excessive promotion was effectively transforming the event into an early campaign platform for the upcoming Indian elections.
Bloomberg’s headline read Modi Turns G-20 Summit into Not-So-Subtle India Election Kickoff, indicating that a recent poll suggested Modi was poised to extend his decade-long hold on power in the upcoming election.
CNN hosted a debate on the matter, where it was pointed out that Prime Minister Modi seemed to want to project himself on the global stage. However, commentators noted a dissonance between his rhetoric as a voice for the global south and his actions. While he aspired to be seen as such, his critics argued that his expectations from the G-20 were primarily centred around garnering publicity for himself.
In an extensive piece, The New York Times analyzed Modi’s motives behind his active participation in the G-20 summit, referring to him as a “master political marketer.” This characterization underscores the perception that Modi is using international events and taxpayer funds to further his political ambitions.
