Like Media channels, Prashant Kishore and Dhruv Rathi also are running for cover after the stunning Lok Sabha results for their biased predictions and narratives and getting their facts wrong. Social Media Erupts Over Dhruv Rathee’s Comments on Modi’s Varanasi Victory Margin
Shimla/New Delhi: Dhruv Rathee's tweet claiming that Narendra Modi's victory margin in Varanasi was one of the lowest for any sitting Prime Minister has ignited a fierce online battle. Rathee stated that Modi's 1.5 lakh vote margin in 2019 was the second smallest ever, triggering a wave of criticism from Modi supporters.
Modi’s backers swiftly debunked Rathee’s claim, citing historical margins that were even smaller for former Congress Prime Ministers.
Jawaharlal Nehru won by just 29,018 votes in 1957 and 64,571 votes in 1962. Indira Gandhi's margins were 91,703 votes in 1967 and 111,810 votes in 1971. In a striking contrast, she even lost by 55,202 votes in 1977.
Modi’s followers, often referred to as “bhakts,” accuse Rathee of deliberate misinformation. One user tweeted, “Rathee’s facts are as twisted as his agenda,” while another remarked, “He conveniently ignores history to push his narrative.”
On the other hand, Rathee’s supporters defend him, arguing that his critique is valid in highlighting electoral dynamics. “Rathee is just pointing out the vulnerability of Modi’s electoral base,” a fan tweeted. Another added, “His analysis brings out the competitive nature of Modi’s politics, which isn't a bad thing.”
### Prashant Kishor Slammed for Misleading Claims About Congress and Muslim Vote
Prashant Kishor has come under heavy fire on social media after allegedly getting his facts wrong about India's Muslim population and Congress' vote-share in a recent BBC interview.
Critics, including political commentators and netizens, accuse Kishor of spreading misinformation and misrepresenting key statistics, leading to a flurry of online backlash.
In an open letter, Kishor was called out for claiming India’s Muslim population is 18%, when it’s actually around 14%.
"As a former psephologist, this 4% error is unacceptable," the letter states, highlighting that precision is crucial in electoral analysis.
Kishor’s remarks downplaying Congress’ 23% vote-share in the 2024 elections also drew ire.
Critics point out that Congress’ vote-share rose by 3-4% while contesting only 328 seats, compared to 464 in 2014. "Your omission of this context misleads the public," the letter argues.
Further, Kishor’s assertion that Congress relies on a “free vote-bank of 20% minorities” was labeled "preposterous." Critics argue that minority votes are diverse, often supporting regional parties or even the BJP, contrary to Kishor's generalization.
Highlighting Congress' performance in low-Muslim populated states and Kishor’s alleged missteps in past electoral strategies, the letter accuses him of hostility towards Congress due to personal ambitions.
It claims Kishore tried to position himself as the savior of Congress post-2024 but failed, notably with the "TMC-Goa model" in 2022.
The letter ends with a challenge to Kishore for a televised debate on his predictions and claims, pointing out discrepancies between his forecasts and actual election outcomes.
"Your attempt to mislead Indians is appalling," the letter concludes, reflecting the intense backlash Kishor faces online for his controversial statements.
The social media spat has spiraled into a war of trolls, with both sides exchanging barbs and accusations.
