Competing with the World, Yet Facing Stampedes

On one hand, we proudly declare that we are competing with global superpowers in terms of progress. We boast that the world is watching India, that Modi’s leadership has elevated our global image, and that we are making strides in visionary governance. The media is flooded with such narratives of success and development.

But cut to reality—news of a deadly stampede at a railway station in the national capital makes global headlines. And the world watches, not in admiration, but in shock. Such incidents might not be surprising in third-world countries grappling with overpopulation, like Nigeria, or in nations like Pakistan and Bangladesh, which are often labeled as backward due to religious orthodoxy.

However, when a country ruled for a decade by a leader like Modi witnesses such tragedies in its capital city, the global media takes notice. And yet, we lament that foreign nations look down upon us! Isn’t it ironic to complain about international bias when such incidents reveal the harsh realities of our infrastructure and governance?

When stampedes occur at railway stations, what message does that send about the living conditions of Indian citizens? If Western countries issue travel advisories warning their citizens about visiting India, we will be the first to react with outrage. But isn’t it the truth? After all, we have seen people losing their lives not just in railway stations but also in temple events like Pushkarams and Vaikuntha Ekadashi darshans.

And who is responsible for managing these events? The very administration led by the so-called "IT guru" who supposedly taught technology to the world! Under the visionary leadership of such leaders, we continue to witness deadly stampedes in temples and railway stations. Yet, the next day, the propaganda machinery goes into overdrive, hailing these leaders as global visionaries.

Ever since Modi became Prime Minister, we’ve heard claims that the Indian Railways has been transformed. Ticket prices have skyrocketed, and we’ve been told that the entire railway system has been modernized. Even Bollywood movies have echoed this narrative. But setting aside train accidents, the fact that people are still being crushed in stampedes just to board a train speaks volumes about the reality of Indian Railways.

Meanwhile, the Railway Minister insists that everything is under control! And tomorrow, we will once again hear about India’s soaring global reputation. These tragedies will soon be drowned out by nationalist rhetoric and diversionary tactics. Because in this country, there will always be something new to distract us from the real issues.