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Democracy at Risk? Comparing Trump’s Autocratic Approach to Modi’s Governance in India

Reporter 12
26 Feb, 2025

The ongoing developments in the United States under former President Donald Trump have raised alarms over the erosion of democracy and the increasing centralization of power. Trump's approach to governance has drawn comparisons to autocratic leaders worldwide, including Hungary's Viktor Orbán. As Trump pushes for consolidating control over institutions and undermining democratic norms, one may wonder: should Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi adopt similar strategies for governance in India? More importantly, would such an approach be beneficial or detrimental to Indian workers and democracy as a whole?

Trump's Autocratic Strategies: A Threat to Democracy?

Donald Trump’s presidency has been marked by an aggressive consolidation of power, targeting not only political institutions but also businesses, media, and the legal system. His actions against the Associated Press and New York Times, as well as his efforts to punish Covington and Burling for defending Special Counsel Jack Smith, demonstrate his willingness to undermine democratic norms in favor of personal loyalty.

Trump's approach mirrors that of Viktor Orbán, who systematically dismantled democratic institutions in Hungary by rewarding loyalists and punishing dissenters. He captured institutions and created an environment where opposing the ruling party became increasingly difficult. This method of governance thrives on fear, intimidation, and strategic suppression of opposition voices.

Narendra Modi’s Governance: A Comparison

While India remains the world's largest democracy, comparisons have been drawn between Modi’s leadership style and other strongman leaders, including Trump. Modi's government has taken decisive steps to strengthen central control, including reforms in bureaucracy, media regulations, and economic policies that shape business and employment.

One key difference, however, is that Modi's administration has largely used its influence to push for economic growth and infrastructural development. Unlike Trump's personal vendetta against institutions, Modi has focused on long-term national strategies such as Make in India, Digital India, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).

However, concerns have been raised about press freedom, suppression of dissent, and government influence over institutions. The targeting of journalists and activists, media control, and the increasing power of the ruling BJP have fueled debates on whether Modi’s leadership is veering toward autocratic tendencies.

Should Modi Follow Trump’s Strategies?

The idea of Modi adopting Trump’s autocratic strategies may seem appealing to some who support stronger governance. However, implementing such tactics in India would likely backfire for several reasons:

India's Democratic Foundations Are Deeply Rooted: Unlike the United States, where institutions have historically been resilient but are now under attack, India's democratic framework is embedded within its diverse and federal structure. The Indian Constitution upholds a separation of powers, ensuring that state governments and institutions maintain a degree of autonomy.
Impact on Indian Workers: Autocratic governance could negatively impact Indian workers. A government that prioritizes loyalty over merit and independence could lead to inefficiencies in administration, loss of job security, and increased corruption. Workers in media, education, and public services could face undue pressure to align with political ideologies, diminishing fairness and freedom in the workplace.
Global Reputation and Economic Consequences: India is a key player in global trade and diplomacy. Embracing autocratic strategies like those of Trump could damage India’s reputation as a stable democracy, deterring foreign investments and economic collaborations. Businesses and multinational corporations seek stability, and a politicized workforce could reduce India's appeal as a global hub for manufacturing and services.
Dissent and Civil Unrest: Historically, India has had a strong tradition of protests, from the independence movement to recent demonstrations such as the farmers’ protests. Attempts to centralize power in a Trump-like fashion could trigger widespread dissent, making governance more challenging rather than efficient.

Lessons from the Trump Model

India can learn from the Trump administration’s failures by reinforcing its commitment to democracy, transparency, and fair governance. Instead of silencing critics or consolidating control, Modi’s government should focus on:

Strengthening institutional independence
Ensuring free and fair media coverage
Encouraging private sector growth without political interference
Upholding workers’ rights and fair employment practices
Enhancing public trust in governance through accountability

While strong leadership is necessary for any country’s progress, it should not come at the cost of democracy. Modi's government has the potential to maintain control while preserving democratic values, ensuring that Indian workers and citizens continue to benefit from a just and transparent system.

Conclusion: Democracy or Autocracy?

The erosion of democracy under Trump has demonstrated the dangers of an unchecked leader consolidating power for personal or political gain. While some aspects of central governance can be effective in streamlining decision-making, adopting an outright autocratic approach could prove disastrous for India. Instead of following in Trump's footsteps, Modi should focus on strengthening India’s democratic institutions while ensuring that governance remains inclusive, fair, and accountable.

The future of India lies in balancing strong leadership with democratic resilience. Indian workers and citizens deserve a system that fosters growth, innovation, and fairness without fear or suppression. Unlike Trump’s path, which has led the U.S. towards democratic instability, India must strive to reinforce its role as a thriving democracy, setting an example for the world.