
The 2024 Lok Sabha election was notably distinct, characterized by a heightened focus on the interests and concerns of the common people. Beyond merely exercising their voting rights, ordinary Indians demonstrated a resounding voice against what they perceived as Prime Minister Modi’s connections to crony capitalism. This election has been widely acknowledged by observers and analysts as a watershed moment in India’s social and political landscape, heralding a new era for the country’s democratic system.
The verdict of the 18th general election underscores a remarkable shift in the political arena, marked by a decisive rejection of Modi’s perceived authoritarian tendencies and his alleged proximity to crony capitalism. This term refers to an economic system characterized by a cozy and mutually beneficial relationship between business magnates and government officials. The outcome of the election serves not only as a public indictment of specific policies but also exposes how Modi’s governance over two terms seemingly favored the interests of a privileged few at the expense of the wider populace.
In essence, the 2024 election outcome highlights a shift towards a more people-centric democracy in India. It reflects a collective desire for greater accountability, transparency, and fairness in governance, signaling a departure from entrenched power structures and elite interests. Moreover, it underscores the electorate’s rejection of concentrated power and the pursuit of policies that prioritize the welfare and aspirations of all citizens over narrow vested interests.
The rise of crony capitalism in India, as evidenced by the outcomes of recent elections, signifies the consolidation of wealth and power in the hands of a select few individuals who control the country’s infrastructure. Political analysts, including Gilles Verniers, a senior fellow at the Center for Policy Research, have noted that the 18th general election marked a personal setback for Narendra Modi, whose policies have been perceived as favoring a small group of business elites.
Modi’s approach to governance has contributed to the polarization of Indian society, dividing it into two distinct sections: a privileged wealthy elite and a vast majority struggling to meet their basic needs. Numerous government and non-governmental reports have highlighted the prevalence of favoritism under the Modi regime, particularly in the distribution of legal permits, government grants, special tax breaks, and other forms of state intervention.
Since coming to power after the 2014 election, the Modi administration has implemented a series of policies and constitutional amendments that disproportionately benefit large corporations and business elites. Additionally, the government has introduced various schemes that appear to cater to selected business interests rather than addressing the needs of the general population. Many economists have criticized the government for fostering close ties with specific corporate entities, which allegedly receive preferential treatment in terms of contracts, policies, and regulatory decisions.
Overall, the rise of crony capitalism under the Modi government has raised concerns about economic inequality, lack of transparency, and the concentration of power in the hands of a privileged few. These issues have become central themes in national discourse, shaping public perception and influencing political dynamics in India.
Decoding the Election Outcome
Decoding the outcome of the 2024 Lok Sabha election reveals a significant shift in public sentiment, characterized by a rejection of Modi’s perceived authoritarian tendencies, favoritism, and close ties with corporate interests. This electoral verdict underscores several key dynamics that shaped voter behaviour and influenced the political landscape.
Political Shift: People are voted in several states against Modi’s corporate friendly policies and scheme that help to a small group of business elite. Voters in many states have also turn away from the candidate who was supporting crony capitalism. This voting pattern clearly expose the demand of alternative political system that ensure candidates and parties seen as embodying crony capitalism, opting instead for those who promised more equitable economic policies and greater transparency in government-business relations.
New Policies: On-going crisis in much area has exposed the Modi government approach towards development. Contemporary agrarian crisis in India is a very serious issue of concern affecting the livelihood of many people who are engaged in agricultural sector. This situation agrarian crisis demands a new policy intervention. Voters especially from rural area were very influence and motivated for new policy intervention.
Public Sentiment: The election was driven by widespread dissatisfaction with income inequality, unemployment and perceived corruption. Many voters were motivated by a desire for a fairer economic system that benefits a broader segment of society rather than a privileged few.
Economic Implications: There may be significant changes in how businesses operate, particularly those that have thrived under the previous system of close ties with the government. Companies may face more rigorous scrutiny and regulation.
Social Impact: The election results could lead to greater social cohesion as policies aim to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor. There may be increased investment in social programs and public services to address long-standing issues of poverty and access to healthcare and education.
Overall, the 2024 general election can be seen as a pivotal moment where voters demanded a move towards a more just and equitable economic system, rejecting the entrenched crony capitalism that has characterized the political and economic landscape for years. This shift signals a new direction in governance, with a focus on fairness, transparency, and reducing the undue influence of powerful economic interests on political decisions.
Omprakash Kushwaha teaches Journalism and Mass communication in Dehradun