News Brief

Why Doesn't PM Modi Hold Press Conferences? He Explains

Kuldeep Negi

May 17, 2024, 11:31 AM | Updated 11:31 AM IST


PM Modi
PM Modi

In a recent interview with Aaj Tak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the question of why he seldom holds press conferences, a notable shift from his time as Chief Minister of Gujarat when he frequently engaged with the media.

PM Modi explained that his focus has shifted towards direct engagement and grassroots efforts.

"First thing is, If maximum people watch me in this election, they will watch me on Aaj Tak. I have never refused to do it," he said.

PM Modi emphasised that he prefers to spend time working on initiatives directly impacting people's lives, rather than participating in media events.

"Second thing is that mostly media has been used here and a culture has been formed that, don’t do anything, just handle them and tell your point, it will work in the country. I don't want to go on that path," he said.

"I have to work hard. I want to go to the poor's house. I can also cut ribbons and get my photo taken in Vigyan Bhavan. I don't do that. I go to a small district of Jharkhand and work for a small scheme. I have brought a new work culture. If that culture feels right, then the media should present it correctly, if not, then they don't," PM Modi added.

PM Modi also emphasised that he is answerable to the Parliament, where he is ready to answer all questions.

He also criticised the current state of the media, suggesting that it has lost its objectivity.

"Today media is not a separate entity. Like many others, you have also made your views known to people. Earlier media was faceless, it had no face. Who writes in media, what are the views of the writer? People used to believe that it's analysis, but today the situation is not the same," he noted.

Modi argued that the evolution of communication allows leaders to interact directly with the public, bypassing traditional media channels.

"Earlier communication was their only source, you could not go without media. Today if you want to talk to the public, communication is two way. Today public can also make its voice known without media. Even a person who has to answer can express his views well without media," he said.

Also Read: 'Should Everybody Be Poor?': What PM Modi Said On Income Inequality And Wealth Creators In Latest Interview

Kuldeep is Senior Editor (Newsroom) at Swarajya. He tweets at @kaydnegi.


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