As India voted in the 2024 general elections, key parties exchanged accusations and counter-allegations. Another heated subject during the exit poll was Rahul Gandhi’s assertions regarding a Modi-related stock market scam. Rahul Gandhi, the former president of the Indian National Congress (INC), accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of engaging in a massive stock market manipulation scheme that defrauded investors and eroded public trust in the market. This analysis examines Rahul’s assertions to see whether they were valid or deceptive during the exit poll. It will explore the facts, context, and Modi administration and stakeholder reactions to Rahul’s claims to determine their truth and possible influence on the election process.
Rahul Gandhi, undoubtedly, has been spreading misinformation and sowing doubt about the stock market in a scathing and unsubstantiated attack on Narendra Modi. He intends to erode investor confidence with irresponsible claims and harsh speech, threatening the Indian economy’s hard-earned successes. In the run-up to India’s 2024 Lok Sabha elections, allegations surfaced that the Modi government advocated purchasing shares based on expectations fueled by purportedly “bogus” exit polls, with the opposition leader Rahul Gandhi accusing the ruling party of “misleading” the public. Surprisingly, the ups and downs in the stock market (henceforth market) gradually create buzz among investors and the market. However, politicians with a slight interest and knowledge show a keen interest in it without understanding the Market. Still, the Market permits everyone to participate and invest based on their marketing skills and knowledge accordingly.
While hatching a conspiracy to scare domestic and foreign investors, Rahul intentionally added that Modi and Shah were ‘overtly involved’ in what he described as the ‘biggest stock market scam’ in which, according to his perception, retail investors lost 30 lakh crores. Thus, he demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe. What a waste of time and effort if one starts following his even more worthless allegations. Perhaps this would be why many Bhartiya didn’t trust him and his party’s credibility. Rahul Gandhi needs to stop watching ‘daily soap’ serials to make such conspiracy against Modi, who is still the first choice not only in Bharat but worldwide for many significant issues. Who else can trust his stock market theory, which is wholly based on his imaginary narratives, who, himself, is not ready to accept that Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) works unbiasedly and does not assist any political parties?
Even during election days, it is apparent that people (or investors) who understand the market start giving their opinions about buying and selling the shares, including the Ups and Downs of the different companies. Many market experts start giving their opinions based on the circumstances, which means they are all biased and assisting the government. What troubled Rahul was how the government gave investors views about the market. His conspiracy directly points toward the theory of Crony Capitalism, which is, nonetheless, an effortless attempt to tarnish the image of the Modi government. The Modi government responded to Rahul’s claims by accusing him of spreading lies and undermining economic growth and investor confidence. Peeyush Goyal addressed the media, denouncing his charges as desperate efforts by a weak opposition party to destroy the government’s image, where he said, “Rahul Gandhi has still not overcome the loss in the Lok Sabha Elections. Now, he is conspiring to mislead the market investors. Today, India has become the fifth-largest economy… The stock market fell as investors feared when Congress gained seats; it is rising now as Modi govt is set to return…. They support reform; they support what is good for the people of India. They understand that the ten years of the Modi government have taken the country to newer heights and have the confidence that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s able leadership…the big vision with which he has taken the country to today’s position of being the world’s fastest-growing large economy, they are confident that under his leadership, this country will continue to do better and better and become the world’s third-largest economy while continuing the growth that we are witnessing in the last few years”. He pointed to his administration’s financial sector strengthening and foreign investment efforts to demonstrate its commitment to openness, accountability, and economic reforms. The BJP noted the Modi government’s harsh punishment of market manipulators and other financial wrongdoers in high-profile financial fraud and corruption cases. SEBI and other monetary authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to capital market integrity. They highlighted sophisticated systems and procedures to identify and prevent market manipulation, insider trading, and other misconduct.
Rahul Gandhi allegedly and shamefully blames Narendra Modi and other cabinet leaders for advocating the purchase of shares before the election results on 4 June, hinting at insider trading facilitated by ‘fake’ exit polls. He added that Modi framed this as a deliberate attempt to mislead investors and voters for political and financial gains. Based on the available information and the absence of concrete evidence, the Modi government’s claims of advocating “buying shares” and facilitating misinformation through “fake” exit polls appear unsubstantiated. However, nobody denies that a more in-depth investigation by relevant authorities may be warranted if credible evidence surfaces. Promoting transparency and accountability in the electoral process, including conducting exit polls and disseminating market-sensitive information, is crucial. Even the Modi government is committed to strengthening regulatory oversight, enhancing investor education, and fostering a culture of ethical conduct in financial markets are essential steps. Additionally, political discourse should prioritize substantive policy discussions and constructive criticism over unsubstantiated allegations. All stakeholders, including political parties, the media, and civil society organizations, must uphold the principles of fairness, accuracy, and non-partisanship.
Lastly, Rahul Gandhi’s 2024 election exit poll claims concerning a Modi government stock market scam seem deceptive and unsubstantiated. He claimed to have documentation proof of government market manipulation and insider trading, but he failed to provide supporting evidence. The INC’s behind position in pre-election surveys, the timing of the charges, and the intense political language show that his assertions were politically driven efforts to affect public opinion and destroy the BJP’s credibility. The Modi government’s vehement denials, the absence of independent proof, and financial experts’ and regulators’ scepticism weaken his charges. Stock market scandal charges sparked public conversation and may have impacted voter impressions, but they must be evaluated objectively and based on facts. Political gamesmanship and mudslinging characterize high-stakes elections, including his statements without evidence. Instead of unfounded claims and political bluster, voters should evaluate each party’s record, policy ideas, and vision for the nation.
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