Is India Moving Towards Communism Under Modi?

The question of whether India is heading towards communism under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a complex one. While some suggest a shift towards a more capitalist direction, the reality on the ground points to a different narrative. Let's delve into the economic and political landscape of contemporary India to understand where the country stands.

Economic Landscape: Towards Capitalism or Stagnation?

The ease of doing business in India, as measured by various indices, has seen a slight improvement during Modi's tenure. However, the underlying structures and inefficiencies remain deeply entrenched. The license-permit raj, a term indicating the excessive bureaucracy and red tape, continues to hinder entrepreneurial growth and innovation. This bureaucratic inertia has led to significant corruption and inefficiency, with officials often using their positions to extort bribes and validate their egos at the expense of the nation's progress.

The socio-political fabric of India under the Modi government includes a mix of ideologies, characterized by its cadre-based party and support from organizations like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Modi's vision of "Sabka Vikas" (development for all) and "Sabka Saath" (together with all) reflects a nuanced approach to governance that aims to bridge socio-economic divides. However, the implementation of policies that promise inclusivity and widespread benefits has faced challenges, exacerbated by corruption and administrative inefficiencies.

Capitalism vs. Communism: A Misconstrued Question

The question of communism in the context of India is often misunderstood. While the license-permit raj and bureaucratic inefficiencies suggest a lack of a free-market economy, the concept of full-blown communism is far from reality. India’s economic reforms, starting from the 1990s, have been nudging the country towards a more capitalist direction, with significant reduction in state control over business and more liberal economic policies.

Nevertheless, the government's heavy-handedness and corruption continue to be significant drawbacks. The high indirect taxes coupled with low government spending and insufficient stimulus packages have led to a stagnation in economic growth and social development. Moreover, the misuse of healthcare resources during the pandemic, with hospitals producing fake COVID cases to drain government funds, is a clear portrayal of inefficiencies and corruption in the system.

The Role of Citizens and Governance

The citizens of India play a crucial role in this narrative. The high level of corruption and inefficiency in governance can be attributed, in part, to the lack of citizen oversight and ethical responsibility. The idea that a corrupt system can be changed through elections is flawed, as evidenced by the fact that citizens often vote for officials who engage in corrupt practices. This is evident in the case of people taking bribes to vote, a clear indication of a self-serving and atomized populace.

Severe moral and ethical degradation is evident in Indian society and politics. A society that accepts corruption, bureaucracy, and thievery as a norm undermines the foundational principles of democracy and economic development. True progress cannot be made without a drastically improved moral and ethical base, which goes beyond just voting for change.

Modi's Approach to Development

Prime Minister Modi's vision for inclusive development is multifaceted. While his party's ideology is rooted in traditional values and nationalist sentiments, his policies aim to address the socio-economic challenges faced by the country. The key to long-term success lies in his ability to implement his vision honestly and with single-minded focus. If the prime minister can focus on inclusive growth, social welfare, and grassroots empowerment, the necessity to follow communism or any other extreme ideology might diminish.

It is essential to recognize that India's journey towards prosperity is one that requires sustained effort, transparency, and ethical governance. While the road ahead is fraught with challenges, the path towards a better future is still open.