Veteran journalist Rajdeep Sardesai said he had to change the title of his newly released book, ‘2024: The Election That Surprised India’, after the results of 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Known for his incisive political insights, Sardesai recently spoke with The Free Press Journal in a candid interview that spanned his illustrious career, reflections on the evolving media landscape and insights into his new book on the 2024 Indian elections. Sardesai, who has completed 36 years in journalism, opened up about taking a much-needed break to breathe, likening the relentless nature of television news to driving a high-speed train.
The Changing Face Of Journalism
A self-professed newspaper man at heart, Sardesai expressed nostalgia for print journalism, describing it as his true passion. He lamented the erosion of traditional journalistic values with the advent of social media and the rise of YouTube and podcast platforms.
According to Sardesai, these changes have shifted the focus from ground reporting to studio-based commentary, often marked by polarizing views. Despite the challenges, he praised stalwart journalists who continue to uphold traditional practices by asking tough questions and reporting from the ground.
Insights On Indian Elections
Sardesai’s latest book, The Election That Surprised India, marks the culmination of a trilogy on Indian elections. He revealed that he initially considered naming the book Hattrick, reflecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s three consecutive terms in power. However, Sardesai felt the term didn’t fully capture the nuanced political landscape. Instead, he explored how Modi and BJP president Amit Shah have meticulously expanded their political footprint across India, conquering states previously devoid of a BJP presence.
Reflecting on surprising election outcomes, Sardesai highlighted the 2024 Haryana elections, where despite strong anti-incumbency sentiments, the BJP managed to retain power through strategic micromanagement. He attributed the victory to meticulous planning, outreach to key communities, and dividing the opposition’s voter base with independent candidates. Sardesai emphasized that modern elections in India hinge on both maahaul (atmosphere) and management, with the BJP excelling at the latter.
The Role Of Money Power & Election Dynamics
One of Sardesai’s chief concerns was the pervasive influence of money in elections. He criticised the increasing use of cash and state resources to sway voters, noting that this undermines the principle of free and fair elections. He cited Maharashtra’s recent elections as a case study, where cash flow and government-funded schemes significantly tilted the playing field. Sardesai warned that such practices distort democracy and create an uneven contest, especially when ruling parties leverage state machinery to their advantage.
He also discussed the emergence of welfare schemes as political tools, blurring the line between genuine social welfare and vote-buying. While acknowledging the effectiveness of these schemes in garnering support, Sardesai cautioned against their long-term implications on state finances and development.
Maharashtra’s Economic & Political Landscape
Sardesai voiced concerns about Maharashtra’s economic decline over the past two decades, despite its legacy as an industrial hub. He pointed out regional disparities, with rural areas suffering from a lack of development and employment opportunities. He urged the state’s new government to prioritise rebuilding Maharashtra’s economy and addressing structural issues.
He highlighted the BJP’s strategic use of narratives, referencing the ‘Batenge, Katenge’ controversy. He acknowledged how opposition parties, particularly the Congress, failed to counter these narratives effectively. Sardesai stated that such narratives can significantly influence elections. He noted the BJP’s mastery of micro-level election management and narrative control, a tactic rooted in the party’s experience, including lessons from the RSS.
RSS’ Share In BJP’s Electoral Success
Sardesai also shared his perspective on the RSS’s influence, stating that its cadre is well-disciplined and works tirelessly at the grassroots level, building strong relationships with people. He remarked that while the RSS may not always engage directly in political discourse, its ideological influence on the BJP is undeniable, mentioning that the organisation held over 60,000 meetings before the Maharashtra elections.
Sardesai highlighted how the RSS’s long-term focus on cultural and social groundwork plays a crucial role in shaping BJP’s political narrative, providing them with a loyal and motivated support base. This grassroots mobilisation is key to the BJP’s electoral success, according to Sardesai.
Adapting To New Age Of Politics
Sardesai concluded by discussing how Indian politics has evolved in the digital age. He stressed the importance of social media and real-time communication in shaping electoral narratives. Sardesai argued that political parties must now adapt to this hyper-connected environment, where a single WhatsApp message can influence millions.
