New York (Web Desk): The New York Times, one of the leading US newspapers, has exposed the true face of the so-called Indian democracy by highlighting election rigging by Modi and the stirring up of anti-Muslim sentiments in West Bengal.
According to the publication, the Modi government projected an image of democratic transparency while allegedly influencing election outcomes in the opposition-controlled state of West Bengal.
The report claimed that the ruling party strengthened its support among Hindu voters through alterations in voter records and by deepening religious divisions during the campaign period.
The newspaper warned that India could gradually move toward a de facto single-party system led by Modi’s Hindu nationalist political movement, as opposition groups continue to lose political space and influence.
The NYT added that the Election Commission of India, under pressure from the ruling establishment, removed the names of Muslim voters from electoral rolls in Bihar and West Bengal in an unfair manner.
The report further stated that government institutions are being used to intimidate and weaken opposition parties across the country.
International analysts quoted in the article argued that the suppression of dissent and the erosion of institutional neutrality under Narendra Modi’s leadership have pushed India closer to authoritarian rule.