In an interview with The Wire, Dr. Parakala Prabhakar, a prominent author, economist, and commentator, has ignited a storm of controversy with his scathing assessment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governance. Describing Modi as a dictator rather than a democrat, stating “He is a dictator not a democrat.” Prabhakar criticised what he sees as a disregard for democratic norms and institutions, including Parliament and central-state relations.
He further criticised the erosion of India’s social fabric and values, asserting that Modi’s leadership has regressed the nation politically, economically, and socially. According to him Narendra Modi has set India back in terms of Economy at least 20 years to 25 years.
Prabhakar, who is also the husband of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, expressed grave concerns over the consequences of a potential return to power for the current government, warning of disaster for India. He highlighted Modi’s purported failure to address corruption and his scepticism regarding the ruling party’s electoral claims of securing over 400 seats.
In a candid assessment of Modi’s electoral prospects, Prabhakar predicted that the BJP would struggle to secure more than 220-230 seats in the upcoming elections. He elaborated on potential losses for the party in both northern and southern regions, raising doubts about Modi’s ability to secure a majority and form a government if restricted to a smaller seat share.
Prabhakar also sounded alarms regarding the treatment of India’s minority communities, particularly Muslims, under a potential third term for Modi. He warned of the possibility of their marginalisation and forced exodus, highlighting broader concerns about the erosion of minority rights in the country.
In closing, Prabhakar emphasised the gravity of the situation, drawing parallels between Modi’s governance and historical setbacks for India in terms of economy, polity, and social cohesion. He cautioned against the long-lasting implications of Modi’s leadership, suggesting that reversing the damage would prove immensely challenging in the aftermath of a potential third term.
