PM Narendra Modi’s decision to avoid regular press conferences has once again become a talking point. During his visit to New Zealand, a journalist asked Indian officials why the Prime Minister does not take questions from the media.
Responding to the question, a senior Ministry of External Affairs official said it was not appropriate for a civil servant to comment on the Prime Minister’s political style. However, he explained that Modi prefers to connect directly with the people instead of speaking through the media.
According to the official, many Indian politicians believe in direct interaction with voters, and Modi has made that his preferred way of communication. Through public meetings, rallies, social media and his speeches, he reaches out to people without depending on press conferences.
The question is not new. Similar questions were raised by foreign journalists during Modi’s earlier overseas visits as well.