Even the most ardent supporters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi say that there are many similarities between him and former PM Indira Gandhi. Her authoritarian style of leadership, the complete loyalty she demanded from her party members and cabinet, and the strong role of the state that she envisioned in her policies are just some commonalities.
The cult-like following that she enjoyed — illustrated by the slogan ‘Indira is India, and India is Indira’— is mirrored in the sentiment of ‘ghar ghar Modi’ and Modi bhakti that is present across many parts of the country today.
On her 100th birthday anniversary, we ask experts: Is Modi the new Indira?
Sagarika Ghose
Journalist and author of ‘Indira, India’s Most Powerful Prime Minister’
“Narendra Modi is Indira Gandhi’s true political heir. He is increasingly relying on a one-man personality cult; he is supreme in the party and the government like Indira Gandhi.”
President, Mumbai Congress Committee
“She was pro-poor and this reflected in her policies. Narendra Modi is purely a capitalist and bends in front of big corporate houses.”
Professor Emerita, JNU
“Indira Gandhi’s legacy cannot be defined by or confined to the Emergency or her victory in the 1971 India-Pakistan war.”
Political Historian
“Indira Gandhi firmly maintained the Non-Aligned Movement against big power hegemony. We now seem to be leaning far too much towards the American view of the world.”
Professor of Political Science, DU
“Both Indira Gandhi and Narendra Modi appear to represent the characteristics of an authoritative style of leadership. However, Narendra Modi is far more consultative than Mrs Gandhi as far as decision making is concerned.”