New Delhi, The recent arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sparked a wave of criticism and concern, with India’s notable web portal The Wire drawing stark comparisons between Modi and historical figures of authoritarianism, including Adolf Hitler. The arrest is depicted as a significant deviation from democratic practices, signaling an alarming shift towards authoritarian governance in India.

According to Kashmir Media Service, The Wire’s analysis, penned by Prem Shankar Jha, posits that Modi’s tenure since 2014 has been characterized by a gradual erosion of democratic principles, with the Prime Minister accused of using his authority to quash dissent and consolidate power. This pattern of behavior, as detailed in the article, aligns Modi with tactics historically associated with autocrats.

The crackdown on Kejriwal, a vocal critic of Modi’s policies and a prominent figure in opposition politics, is seen as part of a broader strategy to stifle opposition. The justification for Kejriwal’s arrest, related to a liquor policy, is scrutinized as a pretext for silencing a dissenting voice and weakening democratic opposition.

The Wire’s critique suggests that Kejriwal’s resistance to Modi’s authoritarian tendencies has not only made him a target but has also underscored the vital need for democratic forces within India to unite in defense of constitutional rights and governance principles. The incident has reportedly rallied opposition parties, igniting a collective effort to safeguard democratic integrity against encroaching authoritarianism.