Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, campaigning for a 3rd time period, lately claimed he has been “chosen by God” to serve the nation, sparking controversy and debate.
Speaking to native broadcaster NDTV, Modi stated: “I am convinced that ‘Parmatma’ (God) sent me for a purpose. Once the purpose is achieved, my work will be done. This is why I have completely dedicated myself to God,”
The declare sat nicely together with his right-wing supporters however drew criticism from opponents who accused him of exploiting spiritual sentiments.
Modi’s feedback come amid a heated election season the place the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) appears set to safe one other time period.
The prime minister’s remarks are seen as an try and consolidate his core Hindu nationalist base, which has been instrumental in his earlier electoral victories.
“The wily weaving of religion with politics for a country where faith is an inextricable part of everyday life is the BJP’s USP (unique selling point). Mr. Modi’s claim is the logical culmination of the BJP’s dominant theme,” the Indian newspaper The Telegraph wrote in an editorial.
In one other interview earlier this month, Modi made one other allusion to divinity, saying: “When my mother was alive, I used to believe that I was born biologically. After she passed away, upon reflecting on all my experiences, I was convinced that God had sent me.”
He claimed the one clarification for his great vitality needed to be non-biological.
“I believe God has given me abilities, inspiration, and good intentions for a purpose … I am nothing but an instrument.”
Critics, nevertheless, argue that Modi’s statements are diversion from urgent points resembling unemployment, inflation, and communal tensions.
Congress Party head Rahul Gandhi ridiculed his feedback. “If an ordinary person had made the statements Modi has been making recently, they would be taken directly to a psychiatrist,” he stated.
Innocent query: can a divine being be eligible for citizenship in India, and if not, does He have the appropriate to vote or to contest elections? Could @ECISVEEP look into the query of a self-proclaimed divinity collaborating within the electoral fray? pic.twitter.com/OAmF7d7VKA
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 24, 2024
Opposition leaders have additionally accused Modi of bypassing democratic rules by interesting to divine authority, doubtlessly undermining India’s secular foundations.
“Innocent question: can a divine being be eligible for citizenship in India, and if not, does He have the right to vote or to contest elections?”, one other Congress chief Shashi Tharoor quipped on X.
Source: www.dailysabah.com