Rogue Elephant by former Washington Post correspondent Simon Denyer is a great book for anyone looking to learn about the chaotic politics of India. It was written just before the election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a controversial figure that may not be the politician India needs to lead it into the future according to Denyer. However, the book still offers great insight into what led to Modi’s election and the ideals valued by the Indian people.
Is Modi Bad for India?
One of the biggest factors leading to Modi’s election was the rampant corruption of the previous Singh administration. Despite the fact that the Singh admin won many great victories for the Indian people, such as vastly expanding the economy and helping create peace between the Hindus and Muslims, the fact that corruption was uncovered was their major undoing and led directly to the election of Modi.
Simon Denyer has several issues with Modi, though stops short of completely condemning him. He feels that Modi is both far too media-hungry, and autocratic for his own good and that he could be a step backward for the democracy of India.
He also feels that Modi has basically weaponized the concept of corruption and can use it to bury political opponents with a mere accusation.
Are Indian Voters Misguided?
Most Indians living today have never known an India that hasn’t been prosperous say Simon Denyer, former Washington Post correspondent. This may have been another big factor in the election of Modi. He also mentions that educated Indians tend to have large misgivings about the government, despite India’s political victories of the past several decades being directly responsible for their economic victories. Despite this, Denyer says that the Indian people remain hopeful, and are fully committed to making their country better in the years to come. Go Here for related Information.