Image courtesy of the Economist
A new political era has begun in the world’s largest democracy. In a surprise turn of events the Bharatiya Janata Party lost its governing majority during the parliamentary elections that took place across 43 days this spring. A hobbled Modi now has to rely on allies to push through economic and social reforms, a welcome change for the millions of Indians who are apart of minority groups. His domestic and international appeal among his loyal followers, however, remains substantial. Modi, a self-proclaimed Hindu divinity, has spent his decade in power tightening his grasp on Indians globally. His charisma and appeal to Hindu nationalism have made him a symbol of Indian power and growing influence. His popularity is best felt among hardworking immigrants who hope to see their nation shine. The power to be obtained from international campaigning is considerable; with over 34 million Indians living overseas, they form the largest diaspora globally. Modi and his party harness the power of communities and organizations established by international offshoots of his campaign to secure votes and advance his global agenda. Earlier this year, a group in England founded by Friends of the BJP held an event in support of the Hindu nationalist regime, drawing notable attendance and featuring an address from a conservative MP. The political address highlighted support for his constituents and celebrated Modi’s government and achievements. Modi, along with his opponents from Congress and other parties, are certain to leverage the influence of Indians living abroad to cling to power and bolster their image.
Even after Indians who have chosen to be naturalized in their adopted nation and forcibly renounce their citizenship, their influence over their friends and family back home remains. Residents look to their immigrant counterparts for approval and inspiration on all matters. Their desire to improve the image of India abroad also plays an important role in their political loyalty. The prime minister’s work to sell India as a manufacturing powerhouse and capital of innovation to the world has partly paid off at the ballot box. A study conducted by Carnegie Endowment found support for the BJP to surpass support for the opposition among expatriates. Aware of his global popularity, Modi has held rallies worldwide to cultivate his global image.
Modi’s success, however, raises a profound ethical dilemma: Should citizens living abroad be involved in local politics?
For most immigrants, the day-to-day politics in their country of origin has little to no impact on their lives. Housing, education, and other areas of living take precedence over Indian politics for the vast majority of the 18 million Indian immigrants who retain their citizenship. Consequently, traveling to their place of birth to vote, as one must in India, is senseless for most. A harsher judgment may ask: Why should immigrants have a say in local parliamentary elections? Some may argue it is an immigrant’s responsibility to vote for a better future to prevent others from having to move abroad. However, immigrants may lack the first-hand experience necessary to make informed decisions for residents. Immigrants may also face a potential conflict of interest in local politics, a factor that cannot be overlooked. While India’s laws surrounding dual citizenship aim to prevent any conflict, they may not address all concerns. Donations, rallies, and influence are all avenues for non-citizens to get involved and have an outsized impact on local politics. As the BJP, hobbled by losses, enters a third term in power analyzing the effects of immigration and the BJP’s vision for the diaspora is essential to understanding Modi’s foreign policy. India’s diaspora is a compelling testament to the enduring impact immigrants continue to have following their departure.