Why Tamil Nadu's Perception of Modi Resonates: Unveiling the Complexities
The question 'Why does Tamil Nadu hate Modi?' was posed by an individual named Truth, who erroneously focuses on corruption based on the sole criterion of monetary transactions. However, Tamil Nadu does not inherently hate Mr. Modi; rather, it is the continuous perception of lack of tangible benefits and transparent governance that drives sentiments within the state.
A Critique on the Definition of Corruption
Truth's understanding of corruption is limited to monetary transactions. This narrow view fails to consider the broader spectrum of governance, which includes transparency in policy actions, accountability, and moral values in politics. Even minor shortcomings in these areas constitute corruption, which can be more impactful on governance than mere financial impropriety.
It is quite ironic that those advocating against Modi should look past his luxurious lifestyle. Modi's sponsorship for his attire and travel via private jets does not make him a paragon of integrity. However, the failure to divulge the accounts of the PM COVID fund and to hide electoral bond particulars suggests a lack of transparency, which is a different form of corruption.
Tamil Nadu's Disappointment: A Saga of Unmet Expectations
Tamil Nadu has not gained much from the BJP Government in the past decade. There has been a reported hijacking of projects intended for Tamil Nadu to other states, such as Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. For instance, the AIIMS Madurai, which had its foundation stone laid alongside other AIIMS branches, has seen no significant progress. Similarly, funds for the Chennai Metro, which were budgeted, remain unallocated since 2021.
Moreover, Tamil Nadu has not seen its allocation for natural calamities managed by the NDRF. These delays and misallocations have further compounded the frustration among the people of Tamil Nadu. Additionally, the allocation for Tamil language, which is a part of India's rich linguistic tapestry, remains meager compared to Sanskrit and Hindi, which receive substantial allocations.
Skeptical Punditry and the 'Frog in the Well' Mentality
Tamil people, often described as having a 'frog in the well' mentality, tend to take things at face value. Over the years, however, they have started to develop open-minded approaches through travel, business, and opportunities elsewhere. Consequently, their understanding of issues is more nuanced, informed by their own experiences and the opinions of like-minded individuals.
When it comes to perceptions of politicians, Modi is viewed through a unique prism. He is considered anti-political by Tamil standards, known for his non-corrupt behavior and an approach that conflicts with the prevalent perception of politicians favoring money and power. His ability to appear in traditional attire and reference ancient Tamil literature does not resonate with the Tamil people; rather, it seems to perpetuate a stereotype that they do not align with.
Conclusion
The perception of Modi in Tamil Nadu is rooted in a broader narrative of transparency, accountability, and tangible state-building initiatives. While Tamil Nadu does not hate Modi, it does demand that its politicians and leaders deliver tangible results and maintain a level of integrity in governance. This demand is echoed through various manifestations of state dissatisfaction, from infrastructure projects to language funding.