During a recent podcast with American computer scientist and podcaster Lex Fridman, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reinforced the fact that criticism is the “soul of democracy” which he eagerly accepts. At the same time, he also indicated that actual well-thought criticism is growing fewer in number these days with numerous others willing to issue allegations in its place.
PM Modi discussed his conviction when he said, “I have a very firm belief that criticism is the essence of democracy. If democracy is actually in your blood, you will accept it.” He insisted that the criticism has to be sharp, educated, and on the basis of serious study and analysis, not accusations. “We should have more criticism and it should be sharp and educated,” he further added.
Quoting India’s ancient texts, PM Modi added, “Always keep your critics close.” He emphasized the importance of accepting genuine criticism, which gives the chance to enhance and make democratic strides with better understanding.
Even though he was receptive to criticism, the prime minister was worried about the state of public debate at present, stating, “Genuine criticism calls for extensive study, intensive research, and meticulous analysis. It calls for seeking the truth from falsehood. Nowadays, people seek shortcuts, shun proper research. Rather than seeking out real weaknesses, they go directly to accusations.”
For democracy to flourish, PM Modi reasserted, real criticism is needed, and allegations merely breed unnecessary disputes. He summed up, “Allegations do not benefit anyone; they simply generate unnecessary conflicts. That’s why I always accept criticism in an open-hearted manner. And whenever there are false accusations, I quietly keep on working for my country with full devotion.”
