India, often hailed as the "Mother of Democracy," is facing a critical juncture as the nation prepares for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections in 2024. A recent editorial from the Financial Times paints a concerning picture, suggesting that the health of Indian democracy is in jeopardy due to an intensifying clampdown on opposition parties under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The editorial highlights a series of troubling events, including the arrest of opposition leaders such as Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate and allegations of bank account freezing by the Congress, the principal opposition party. These actions, coupled with what the editorial describes as a "squeeze on free expression and opposition," paint a grim reality of political landscape in India.

Under PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rule, the editorial argues, there has been a notable erosion of India's tradition of secular democracy. The BJP's muscular Hindu nationalism, according to the piece, has contributed to a climate where harassment of government critics has become commonplace, whether they are independent media, academics, or civil society groups.

A particularly alarming trend highlighted in the editorial is the perceived misuse of investigation agencies by the PM Modi-led government against opposition figures. The opposition has accused the BJP of employing state agencies to stifle dissent, leading to accusations of "match-fixing" in the run-up to the elections.

Despite these concerns, the editorial notes the puzzling aspect that the ruling party would engage in such tactics at a time when opinion polls suggest the BJP is poised to win a third term in power. This discrepancy between democratic rhetoric and authoritarian actions raises questions about the government's motives and intentions.

India's status as one of the world's largest and most vibrant economies underscores the significance of maintaining its democratic principles. The editorial argues that the attractiveness of India for investment and its role as a geopolitical partner rely heavily on its image as a democratic, law-based state.

The international community, particularly democratic nations like the United States, has a vested interest in preserving political freedoms in India. The editorial references concerns expressed by the US after New Delhi summoned a top US diplomat to protest criticism of Arvind Kejriwal's arrest, highlighting the need for a robust defense of democratic values.

In conclusion, the editorial emphasizes that preserving democracy in India is not only essential for the rights and freedoms of its citizens but also for the country's growth, prosperity, and global standing. As India navigates its political landscape in the lead-up to the 2024 elections, the world will be watching closely to see how it upholds its democratic principles in the face of mounting challenges.

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