Modi most popular politician ever: Indians reveal their preferences
PM Narendra Modi might have his fair share of detractors, but according to a Pew study, he is by far the most popular figure in Indian politics. The Pew survey reveals how most people are happy with the way the economy has performed since 2014. Also, most consider disruptions like communal tension and demonetization relatively minor issues. The results are intriguing indeed.
Who are India's most popular political leaders?
The study was conducted during February-March this year. 2,464 respondents were surveyed. It found that 88% of the Indian population hold a favorable view of Modi. Next on the list is Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi with 58% favorable ratings- a difference of 30 points. AAP's Arvind Kejriwal is viewed favorably by just 39%. Modi's popularity has remained strong in most areas except the east.
What factors are Indians the most satisfied with?
The biggest reason people are happy with Modi is contentment with the economy: over 8/10 say economic conditions are good, a jump of 19 points since right before the 2014 elections. 7/10 are satisfied with the way things are going on in India, double that of pre-2014. Over 7/10 approve his handling of terrorism, unemployment and corruption, that they consider India's biggest problems.
What problems concern Indians the most?
According to the people, crime (84%) and terrorism (76%) are the biggest problems India is facing. Corruption (74%), unemployment (73%) and rising prices (71%) follow close behind. Only 37% are unhappy with the current state of communal relations in the country. 45% don't mind the unavailability of cash post demonetization either. There are noticeable regional differences in estimation of intensity of these issues.
What do Indians think about their public institutions?
Indians are generally happy with most public institutions. 76% think media has a good influence on ongoings. Over 66% are happy with the influence of the court system, human rights organizations and police. Satisfaction with the government and the military is the highest (86%). But two institutions the public isn't very happy with are religious leaders (53%) and corporations (56%).
Is the majority satisfied with democratic rule?
Almost 80% are satisfied with the way democracy is currently working in India: both direct and representative democracy enjoy mass support. About 66% feel experts, not elected officials, should rule the country. Surprisingly, 55% back a system where one leader can make decisions without the parliament or courts' interference. 53% even support military rule.
Which countries are Indians the happiest with?
Nearly 50% Indians view the US favorably, but only 40% trust Donald Trump's approach to international affairs, down 34 points from his predecessor Barack Obama's rating. Unsurprisingly, China (26%) and Pakistan (10%) enjoy abysmally low levels of favorable views. Almost half (47%) view Russia favorably.
