Narendra Modi came to power in 2014 promising economic prosperity, corruption free governance and a powerful India. More than a decade later, his leadership faces criticism over unemployment, religious polarisation, student protests and concerns about democratic institutions. Although he remains influential, recent developments have challenged his image of political invincibility.
The biggest electoral setback came in June 2024, when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 240 parliamentary seats, down from 303 in 2019. Falling short of the 272 required for a majority, Modi had to depend on coalition partners to form his third government. The result demonstrated that nationalist campaigning could not guarantee overwhelming electoral dominance.
Unemployment remains a major concern for India’s young population. Graduates face intense competition for secure jobs, while rising living costs put pressure on households. Critics argue that the government’s promises of economic transformation have not adequately addressed these challenges. Although India continues to attract investment and maintain economic growth, the benefits must translate into better employment opportunities for ordinary citizens.
Partisan television coverage raises questions about whether those in power face adequate scrutiny, while allegations of preferential treatment for politically connected businesses require transparent investigation.
Student protests have further exposed public frustration. Controversies surrounding competitive examinations, particularly the NEET medical entrance examination in 2024, raised questions about examination security and administrative accountability. Allegations of paper leaks and irregularities left students worried about their futures after years of preparation. These controversies strengthened demands for transparent examinations and greater accountability from government institutions.
Modi’s Hindu-nationalist politics have also attracted criticism over the treatment of religious minorities. Human Rights Watch reported in August 2024 that it had identified anti-Muslim rhetoric in at least 110 of 173 speeches delivered by Modi during the election campaign. The organisation has also documented attacks against Muslims and Christians, alongside unlawful demolitions of Muslim properties in several BJP-governed states. Critics argue that such practices undermine constitutional equality and deepen religious divisions. India’s international standing depends partly on its ability to protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of religion.
The prolonged ethnic violence in Manipur has raised further questions about governance. Violence that began in May 2023 killed more than 200 people and displaced tens of thousands, according to Human Rights Watch. The crisis exposed serious difficulties in protecting vulnerable communities and restoring peace. For a prime minister associated with decisive leadership, prolonged instability creates a contrast between political promises and public experience.
Electoral transparency has also become controversial. Disputes surrounding voter-list revisions have raised concerns about whether eligible citizens could face obstacles to voting. Authorities argue that revisions improve electoral accuracy, while critics demand transparent procedures and safeguards against wrongful deletions. Public confidence in democracy requires credible processes that protect every eligible voter’s rights.
The military confrontation with Pakistan in May 2025 also complicated Modi’s image as an unquestioned national-security leader. Following the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people, India launched strikes against targets it described as militant infrastructure. Fighting continued for four days before a ceasefire was announced on May 10. On May 31, India’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, acknowledged that Indian forces had suffered aerial losses but did not disclose their number. Pakistan mounted a strong defensive response during the military confrontation, while India’s acknowledgment of aerial losses undermined New Delhi’s claims of a decisive military victory.
Meanwhile, allegations of foreign interference have entered discussions about student protests. Republic TV, associated with anchor Arnab Goswami, has featured questions about foreign connections and funding in coverage of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement. However, allegations that Pakistan financed these protests require verifiable evidence. Without credible financial records or investigative findings, blaming Pakistan risks diverting attention from domestic grievances and legitimate demands for accountability.
Concerns about media independence and corporate influence have added to criticism of the government. Partisan television coverage raises questions about whether those in power face adequate scrutiny, while allegations of preferential treatment for politically connected businesses require transparent investigation. Critics argue that political messaging often overshadows unresolved public problems, including women’s safety and effective law enforcement.
The writer is a journalist