The intense election season has raised both excitement and concerns about the country’s future. During his busy campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a significant interview to India Today.
In this in-depth conversation, he addressed a range of pressing issues. He responded to allegations about the BJP’s intentions to alter the Constitution, discussed the Hindu-Muslim narrative, tackled the problem of unemployment, and explained why he avoids holding press conferences. PM Modi confronted every question that emerged amid the heated election debates.
PM Modi Clarifies Election Strategy
In an interview with Rahul Kanwal, Anjana Om Kashyap, Sudhir Chaudhary, and Shweta Singh, PM Modi provided much-needed clarity amidst the confusion of cross-messaging and election promises.
PM addressed the toughest questions with calm, poise, and a touch of humor. He shared his vision confidently, anticipating his party’s third consecutive term. For the first time, he outlined a 125-day plan, dedicating 25 days specifically to the youth.
PM Modi also discussed his efforts to return money seized from the corrupt back to the victims, revealing that he had already returned Rs 17,000 crore through the Enforcement Directorate.
As preparations for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections began, the Prime Minister mentioned he had instructed party members to focus on the BJP symbol, the ‘lotus,’ even before candidates were announced. He emphasized that the more opposition attacks, the stronger the lotus blooms.
He urged people to view elections beyond just winning and losing, seeing them as a chance to directly connect with citizens. Voting, he said, is crucial for democracy.
Despite a drop in voter turnout in the first four phases of the Lok Sabha elections, which analysts interpreted in various ways, PM Modi stressed the importance of strengthening Indian democracy. He criticized the tendency to speculate on results without factual basis.
PM Modi also addressed accusations of the Election Commission favoring the BJP, highlighting that for 56 years, the body was led by a single individual who often went on to become a governor or MP, even recounting an instance where a former Chief Election Commissioner ran against LK Advani.
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PM Modi Dismisses Opposition’s Allegations
Prime Minister Modi responded to the Opposition’s allegations about the central investigative agencies by defending their improved efficiency. He cited the Enforcement Directorate (ED), noting that it was ineffective before 2014 under the Congress government but has become more effective now.
Addressing concerns about the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) being perceived as enforcing uniformity in dress, language, and leadership across the nation, Modi dismissed these claims. He used Goa as an example, asking if all Goans wear the same clothes or eat the same food. He emphasized that the Supreme Court has urged the implementation of UCC multiple times, and it is not a political issue but a recommendation from the Constituent Assembly.
Modi also rejected the Opposition’s fearmongering that the BJP aimed for a “400-plus” mandate to alter the Constitution and eliminate job and education reservations. He accused past leaders from the Nehru family of damaging the Constitution and asserted that those times are over. Modi vowed to uphold the Constituent Assembly’s vision against religion-based reservations, declaring his commitment to this cause, even at great personal cost.
Responding to accusations that the BJP government favored the wealthy, Modi defended the role of wealth creators. He stated that if he had acted dishonestly or benefited anyone unfairly, he should be punished severely. However, he maintained his support for the nation’s wealth creators.
Prime Minister Modi’s Vision for Development
Prime Minister Modi expressed concern for both those who create wealth and those who work hard. He believes development requires the money of investors, the expertise of managers, and the effort of laborers.
He criticized the Congress for failing to fulfill its promise of creating 30 lakh jobs for the youth, especially in states where it holds power.
Differentiating between government jobs and overall job creation, PM Modi highlighted the increase in Mudra loans and infrastructure projects leading to employment growth. He claimed the government’s schemes have generated six crore jobs.
In an exclusive interview, PM Modi denied engaging in divisive politics based on religion. He defended his stance on issues like triple talaq, arguing that criticism against him is unfounded.
PM Modi blamed the opposition for communal politics and defended his actions aimed at inclusivity, such as urging Israel to avoid bombings in Gaza during Ramzan.
Regarding the BJP’s slogan of ‘400 paar’ (crossing 400 seats), PM Modi clarified that it was the people who suggested the target based on their aspirations. He explained his duty as a leader to strive for even greater success.
Explaining his avoidance of press conferences, PM Modi cited changes in media dynamics and his preference for alternative communication channels.
PM Modi addressed various accusations and outlined his priorities for the initial phase of his third term as Prime Minister, making it an informative session during the election period.
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PM Modi Clarifies Election Strategy FAQs
Q.1. What were the key topics discussed in PM Modi’s interview?
Ans. PM Modi discussed issues like altering the Constitution, Hindu-Muslim narrative, unemployment, and his approach to press conferences.
Q.2. What did PM Modi emphasize regarding the 2024 Lok Sabha elections?
Ans. He stressed the importance of focusing on the BJP’s symbol, the ‘lotus,’ and connecting directly with citizens beyond just winning or losing.
Q.3. How did PM Modi respond to accusations about the Election Commission?
Ans. He dismissed allegations of favoritism, highlighting past instances of neutrality and improvements in investigative agencies.
Q.4. What was PM Modi’s stance on wealth creators and job creation?
Ans. He defended wealth creators while criticizing the Congress for failing to deliver on job promises, citing schemes like Mudra loans for employment growth.
Q.5. How did PM Modi address accusations of divisive politics?
Ans. He denied engaging in communal politics, defended actions promoting inclusivity, and highlighted efforts like urging Israel to avoid bombings during Ramzan.
