All Major Cases & Controversies Surrounding Narendra Modi — Complete Guide

Narendra Modi has been one of India’s most influential and polarizing leaders. Though he has many supporters, many critics point to various controversies and allegations over the years. Below is a comprehensive rundown you can use as a blog post.

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1. 2002 Gujarat Riots & Allegations of Complicity

When Modi was Chief Minister of Gujarat, horrific communal violence broke out in 2002 after the Godhra train burning incident, which led to attacks on Muslim communities.

Allegations have persisted that Modi’s government did not act swiftly or even tacitly supported rioters.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by India’s Supreme Court eventually gave him a “clean chit,” stating there was insufficient evidence to prosecute him personally. 

The Gulberg Society massacre (one of the major violent episodes during those riots) is still under litigation. Zakia Jafri, widow of a victim, challenged the SIT report, and the matter continues to be heard in courts. 

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2. Revocation of Article 370 / Kashmir Autonomy

In August 2019, Modi’s government revoked the special status (Article 370) of Jammu & Kashmir.

This decision drew sharp criticism for being unilateral, undemocratic, and for the subsequent clampdown, communication blackout, and detentions of local leaders.

Critics argue it violated principles of federalism and the rights of Kashmiris. 

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3. The Citizenship (Amendment) Act & National Register of Citizens (NRC)

Modi’s administration passed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA, 2019), which provides fast-track citizenship to non-Muslim immigrants from neighboring countries, excluding Muslims.

Combined with talk of a Nationwide NRC (National Register of Citizens), many see these policies as discriminatory against Muslims.

Protest movements erupted across India, with accusations that these laws erode India’s secular and pluralistic foundation. 

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4. Hate Speech & Election Rhetoric

Multiple human rights organizations (e.g., Human Rights Watch) have claimed that Modi and BJP leaders used inflammatory and hate-inducing language during electoral campaigns, particularly targeting Muslim communities. 

These remarks, critics argue, normalize hostility and discrimination, raising serious concerns about communal harmony.

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5. Freedom of Press, Dissent & Civil Society Crackdowns

Modi’s tenure is often criticized for shrinking press freedom, with interventions or pressures on media outlets and social media platforms. 

The BBC documentary India: The Modi Question—which examined many of these controversies—was banned by the Indian government, citing “anti-India propaganda.” 

Some NGOs, civil society organizations, and activists allege harassment, regulatory hurdles, or targeting if they are critical of the government.

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6. ISRO Espionage Case & Nambi Narayanan

The ISRO espionage case was a scandal involving alleged spying charges against scientist Nambi Narayanan. The charges were later found to be false. 

Later, the Supreme Court awarded compensation for the “mental cruelty” he suffered due to false accusations. 

Critics allege that during Modi’s campaigning, the case resurfaced politically, though Modi’s government denies misuse. 

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7. 2022 Security Breach Incident

In January 2022, Modi’s convoy got stuck on a flyover in Punjab for about 20 minutes after protesters blocked the road. 

The government called it a “major security lapse,” and a judicial inquiry was mandated. 

Later, suspended police officials and other actions were taken. 

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8. Criticism Over Handling of Minority Rights & Discrimination

Over his tenures, critics argue that the Modi government has pursued policies that favor a Hindu nationalist ideology, marginalizing minorities. 

Examples include the spread of anti-conversion laws in states, vigilante violence over alleged threats to cows, and demolition drives in minority communities