Why does the Honourable prime minister of INDIA, NARENDRA DAMODARDAS MODI, rarely hold press conference? What are the reasons behind this approach ?

 Good morning!

Hemraj

Honourable prime minister Narendra damodardas MODI last held a press conference on 17 may 2019.  

                     On May 17,2019 Modi appeared at a BJP press conference alongside Amit shah. Journalists directed questions towards Modi, but he largely referred the questions to Amit shah. The incident subsequently become an important part of the public debate over why the PM does not regularly answer journalist questions himself.  

Modi'S Own Explanation 

In an interview with India today on 16 may 2024 ,Modi was asked why he does not hold press conferences. In response, he discussed the changing nature of the media. According to his explanation, media was once a primary channel for reaching the public, whereas the digital age now provides multiple direct channel of communication. 

Before WE EXAMINE THE REASONS  BEHIND THIS, LET US FIRST CONSIDER THE ARGUMENTS ON THE OTHER SIDE.

 Opposition's Arguments 

1. Accountability:

The opposition argues that the prime minister holds the country's most important executive officer and should therefore regularly answer journalist's  questions in open press conferences.      

 

2. Lack of follow-up questions :

An interview can have a different format, whereas an open press conference allows journalists to immediately ask follow-up questions  and seek clarification or challenge an answer.

3. Facing difficult questions :

Opposition  leaders and critics argue that open press conference expose the prime minister to unexpected questions that may be difficult to prepare for in advance. 

Despite all these considerations, the government's position remains clear. rather than taking sides on this issues, it presents it's perspective and support of its position. 

Arguments in favour:

1. Direct communication with citizens

2. Changing nature of media :

Modi  has argued  that the media environment has changed and that journalists and media organization increasingly express their own ideological and editorial perspectives.

3. Reduced dependence on traditional media:

In the past, political leaders depended heavily on the media to reach citizens. digital platforms now allow the prime minister to communicate directly without relying entirely on intermediaries.

4 . Reduced possibility of selective interpretation:

Supporters  argue that statements can sometimes be presented different by different media organizations. direct communication allows the prime minister to present his complete position himself.

5.press conferences are not the only accountability mechanism: 

Supporters point to parliament, parliamentary question, public Speeches, interviews, government briefings and digital communication as different mechanism through which the government communicates and it held accountable.

"Ultimately, the Prime Minister's decision not to hold regular press conference remains an important subject of democratic debate. Critics have legitimate  arguments concerning transparency and accountability, but given the changing media landscape and the growing Avenues for direct public communication, Modi's communication strategy we cannot be viewed simply as an attempt to distance himself from the media. the issue is therefore best understand by considering both side of the argument and the available evidences."

"Let's conclude today's discussion here. we'll meet again tomorrow with a new topic."