Unfulfilled Promises and the True Agenda Behind Narendra Modi’s Governance

Introduction

The 2014 Indian general election marked a significant shift in Indian politics with the Bharatiya Janatā Party (BJP) led by Narendra Modi coming to power. Modi's campaign was built on promises of wide-ranging changes, including job creation, economic growth, and social harmony. However, it is evident that these promises were either vague or unachievable, leading to disappointment and criticism. This article delves into the extent to which Modi has fulfilled his promises and the underlying agenda that shapes his governance.

Unfulfilled Promises

Job Creation: One of the most prominent promises made by Narendra Modi was the creation of crores of jobs. Despite numerous initiatives and claims, the reality remains stark. Economic indicators have shown little to no progress in job creation, especially in sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and services. The bureaucracy and various state governments have failed to implement the necessary reforms that could potentially create these jobs. Instead, job creators often favor their own caste or community, leading to a severe mismatch between job demand and supply.

Retrieving Black Money: Another key promise was the retrieval of black money. Modi's famous Demonetization initiative aimed to combat black money and corruption by invalidating old currency notes. However, this move was harsh on the economy and did not achieve the desired results. Black money is not just hidden in cash, but also in various legal investments and channels. The extent of black money remains as unknown as it was before the demonetization drive, making it clear that Modi’s promise was more of a political stunt than a practical solution.

Harsh Reality and Constitutional Principles

India's Integration and Social Harmony: Despite the economic promises failing to materialize, the discourse around communal and caste-based issues has been a recurring theme. Under the banner of Hindu First policy, Modi's government has pushed for Manusmrti-based governance. This has led to a rise in communal tensions and caste-based discrimination. The right-wing extremist groups are thrilled with the government's decisions, as they align with their principles and agendas. These policies have resulted in a fractured society, where social harmony is a distant dream, and economic growth remains under threat.

Policy Implementation: Instead of focusing on economic development, Modi has shifted his political strategy to security and military action. The surgical strike against Pakistan has become a new hallmark for his governance. However, critics argue that these actions are merely distractions from the real issues. Modi's approach to governance has been criticized for prioritizing short-term political gains over sustainable and inclusive development.

Conclusion

The gap between Narendra Modi's campaign promises and the reality on the ground is wide and growing. While economic indicators have shown little to no progress, social and communal tensions have amplified. Modi's government has not succeeded in creating the jobs it promised, and the retrieval of black money remains an unresolved issue. Instead, the focus has shifted to maintaining social disharmony and leveraging security concerns for political gains. As India faces these challenges, it is crucial to assess the true impact of Modi's governance and the unfulfilled promises that have defined his tenure so far.