In the past decade, the world has witnessed a surge of populist leaders and movements that have rocked the foundations of democracies, both old and new. From Donald Trump in the United States to Viktor Orbán in Hungary, from Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil to Narendra Modi in India, populism has become a powerful force in reshaping the political landscape. But what exactly is populism, and how does it affect the democratic systems that are meant to be its bedrock? In India’s case, the rise of populist rhetoric has sparked debates not only on the future of Indian democracy but also on its broader impact on global democratic norms.
Understanding Populism: A Global Phenomenon
Populism, at its core, is a political approach that pits "the people" against the "elite" or "establishment." Populist leaders often claim to speak for the common people, casting themselves as the defenders of the oppressed masses against a corrupt, out-of-touch elite. While the appeal of populism can be seen across a variety of political spectrums, it is most often associated with right-wing nationalism in the modern age.
What sets populism apart from traditional politics is its reliance on charismatic leadership and an emotional appeal that often disregards institutional norms and processes. Populist movements often thrive in times of economic uncertainty, cultural change, and political disillusionment. They promise rapid solutions to complex issues, using slogans and symbolic rhetoric to rally support.
Globally, this rise in populism can be traced back to the 2008 financial crisis, which left many citizens feeling betrayed by political elites and financial institutions. In the aftermath of this crisis, populist movements across the world capitalized on widespread dissatisfaction with the status quo, promising to reset the global order and take power away from established elites. But as populism rises, so do the questions about its impact on democracy.
Populism in India: A Symptom of Larger Challenges
In India, the rise of populism is closely tied to the political ascent of Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Modi’s 2014 victory and his re-election in 2019 are prime examples of how populist leaders can consolidate power in a democracy. His ability to connect with India's vast electorate through simple language and promises of change has made him a populist icon. However, despite his bold rhetoric, many of his policies have faltered, raising questions about the true impact of his populist agenda.
Demonetization: A Failed Gamble
Modi’s demonetization policy in 2016, meant to tackle black money and corruption, backfired. The chaos it caused disproportionately impacted India’s informal economy, leaving millions of workers unemployed. The Reserve Bank of India’s report revealed that 99.3% of the demonetized currency notes were returned, undermining the policy’s effectiveness. Studies indicated a loss of 1.5 million jobs, disproving claims that it would stimulate economic growth.
Job Creation: Unmet Promises
Modi’s promise to create 20 million jobs annually has not been realized. Unemployment remains at its highest levels in decades, with youth unemployment particularly alarming. Reports from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) and Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) have highlighted the sluggish job market and lack of meaningful employment creation, especially in the formal sector.
The CAA and NRC: Divisive Measures
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC) have become flashpoints for religious tension. While Modi’s government frames these policies as efforts to protect India’s national identity, critics argue they discriminate against Muslims, undermining India’s secular foundations. Widespread protests and reports from human rights organizations such as Amnesty International indicate that these measures have deepened religious polarization and led to violence.
Economic Crisis and Populist Failures
The Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) campaign launched during the COVID-19 pandemic promised to rejuvenate the economy but has not delivered. India’s GDP shrank by 7.3% in 2020, and poverty levels have risen, with millions falling deeper into economic hardship. Modi’s economic promises, like those of job creation, have failed to materialize amid widespread business closures and job losses.
Erosion of Democratic Institutions
Populism under Modi has also contributed to the erosion of democratic institutions. The centralization of power and the weakening of the judiciary, media, and civil society have raised alarms about the future of India’s democracy. Critics argue that the government’s growing authoritarian tendencies are undermining democratic norms and freedoms.
A Wake-up Call for India’s Democracy
The rise of populism in India under Modi has reshaped the political landscape, but its long-term effects are concerning. While it has rallied many, it has also deepened social divides, weakened institutions, and failed to deliver on economic promises. To safeguard its democratic future, India must address the structural issues behind populism, such as inequality, unemployment, and the erosion of democratic values. Only by confronting these challenges can India ensure a stable, inclusive democracy in the years ahead.
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