In this interview, Sam Stevenson, the Assistant Editor (Politics) at the Daily Express in the United Kingdom, shares his experiences and insights from his first trip to India. Covering the vast and dynamic election landscape, Stevenson discusses his initial misconceptions about India, the vibrant democratic processes he witnessed, and the surprising ease of travel across this vast nation. He highlights the stark differences in how India’s democracy is portrayed in Western media versus the reality he encountered on the ground.
Stevenson sheds light on India’s political scene, including narratives around Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the perceived threats to democracy. He recounts firsthand experiences from various regions as he covered campaign rallies in Punjab’s Amritsar and Prime Minister Modi’s constituency, Varanasi, detailing both the overwhelming support for Modi and the dissenting voices he encountered.
He says the fact that dissenters were allowed to protest speaks for the freedom of expression, unlike what is portrayed by several other media outlets in the West. Sam also dismisses V-Dem Institute’s report that downgraded India to the status of an electoral autocracy.
Moreover, Stevenson emphasizes the entrepreneurial spirit and technological advancements that impressed him, suggesting that these innovations hold valuable lessons for the UK.
Join us as Stevenson takes us on a journey through India’s election festivities, comparing them to Rio’s carnival, and reflects on the shared values and potential for stronger UK-India relations.
Don’t miss this insightful conversation that bridges cultural and political understandings between the two nations.
This interview aims to provide a nuanced, balanced view of India’s political climate and the vibrancy of its democratic processes, appealing to a global audience interested in international politics and cultural exchange.
