The Modern Indian Politics: Shifts, Markets, and Transformations Since 2014

The Modern Indian politics has undergone significant transformations over the past decade, particularly since the pivotal year of 2014. The political landscape of India, known for its complexity and diversity, has seen a shift in dynamics influenced by socio-economic changes, technological advancements, and evolving voter expectations. This article explores the changes in political dynamics, the role of market forces, and how these elements have reshaped Indian politics since 2014.

Vote bank politics has put the future of our youth in darkness. - Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India

Narendra Modi ji @ Road Show

The 2014 Watershed Moment

The year 2014 marked a crucial turning point in Indian politics with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) securing a decisive victory under the leadership of Narendra Modi. This election not only ended the decade-long rule of the Indian National Congress (INC) but also heralded a new era characterised by a strong central leadership, emphasis on nationalism, and a shift towards right-wing politics. Modi's campaign, which focused on development, economic reforms, and anti-corruption, resonated with a wide demographic, leading to a significant realignment of voter bases.

Shift in Political Dynamics

• Rise of Nationalism and Identity Politics: The BJP's ascendancy brought a renewed focus on nationalism and identity politics. Issues related to religion, caste, and cultural identity became central to political discourse. Policies and initiatives reflecting these themes, such as the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, have significantly influenced public opinion and voting behaviour.

• Centralisation of Power: Modi's leadership style has led to a centralisation of power within the government. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has gained considerable influence over policy-making and implementation, often overshadowing other political institutions and regional leaders. This shift has been both praised for its decisiveness and criticised for undermining democratic decentralisation.

• Emergence of Regional Parties: Despite the dominance of national parties like the BJP and INC, regional parties have continued to play a crucial role in Indian politics. States like West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh have seen strong regional leaders and parties influencing local and national politics, reflecting the persistent diversity of India's political landscape.

Market Forces and Political Change

The interplay between market forces and politics has become increasingly evident in India since 2014. Economic reforms and market dynamics have influenced political strategies and voter expectations in several ways:

• Economic Reforms and Liberalisation: The Modi government has pursued various economic reforms aimed at liberalisation, such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), and the Make in India initiative. These reforms have sought to streamline the economy, attract foreign investment, and boost manufacturing, directly impacting the political narrative around development and growth.

• Digital Revolution and Social Media: The rise of digital technologies and social media platforms has transformed political campaigning and engagement. Political parties have leveraged these tools for outreach, mobilisation, and dissemination of information. Social media has become a battleground for shaping public opinion, with political messages, propaganda, and fake news influencing voter perceptions.

• Market-Driven Voter Expectations: The aspirations of the Indian middle class and youth, driven by economic opportunities and market dynamics, have influenced political agendas. Issues such as job creation, economic stability, and technological advancement have become central to political promises and voter expectations, reflecting a market-driven shift in political priorities.

Post-2014 Political Landscape

Since 2014, Indian politics has witnessed several significant developments:

• Electoral Dominance of the BJP: The BJP's electoral successes, including the 2019 general election victory, have reinforced its dominance in national politics. The party's focus on Hindu nationalism, coupled with strategic alliances and effective grassroots mobilization, has contributed to its continued electoral strength.

• Challenges to Democratic Institutions: The concentration of power and the government's assertive approach have raised concerns about the health of democratic institutions in India. Critics argue that the independence of the judiciary, media freedom, and civil liberties have been challenged, prompting debates about the balance between strong leadership and democratic principles.

• Opposition and Fragmentation: The opposition landscape in India has been marked by fragmentation and challenges in presenting a unified front against the BJP. Efforts to form alliances and coalitions have faced hurdles, with regional and ideological differences often impeding cohesive opposition strategies.

Conclusion

Modern Indian politics since 2014 has been characterised by significant shifts in dynamics, influenced by nationalism, market forces, and the centralisation of power. The political landscape has evolved in response to changing voter expectations, economic reforms, and technological advancements. As India continues to navigate its complex political terrain, the interplay between these factors will shape the future trajectory of its democracy and governance.