MS Shanker
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to watch film The Sabarmati Report along with his cabinet ministers has drawn criticism from the Opposition. While their objections may appear reasonable on the surface, a closer analysis suggests deeper motivations rooted in political history. The film, which revisits the 2002 Godhra train burning and its aftermath, has reignited debates about narratives shaped over two decades.
The Godhra incident, where a coach of the Sabarmati Express was set ablaze, claimed the lives of 59 passengers, mostly kar sevaks. The tragedy triggered widespread riots in Gujarat, leading to communal violence that left lasting scars. The opposition, especially the Congress party, has long held then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi responsible, alleging that he did little to stop the violence. This narrative was systematically built by the Congress-led central government at the time, with accusations of complicity and inaction against Modi.
During Dr. Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister, the Congress introduced the controversial term “Hindu terror,” a narrative that sought to shift focus from Islamist extremism to implicating fringe elements within the Hindu community. Critics argue this was part of a broader strategy to target political opponents, particularly Modi. The Union Home Ministry allegedly played a significant role in framing cases against Modi and his close aide, Amit Shah, leveraging state machinery for political purposes.
However, years of legal scrutiny culminated in the Supreme Court exonerating both Modi and Shah, affirming that there was no evidence to support the charges. Despite these legal vindications, the opposition has continued to use the 2002 riots as a political tool, raising the issue during every election cycle.
The Sabarmati Report, the film in question, dramatizes the events surrounding the Godhra train burning and its aftermath, portraying themes of resilience and justice. Modi’s decision to watch the film with his ministers is significant, not merely as a personal moment but as a symbolic gesture. For a leader who has faced relentless accusations for over two decades, the screening represented a form of closure and a statement of vindication.
Political analysts point out that the film’s release has unsettled the opposition. By bringing to light what many believe were politically motivated charges, the film underscores a narrative of perseverance and eventual justice. The Congress, which had banked on the Godhra riots as a perennial political weapon, finds itself on the defensive.
The opposition’s criticism of Modi’s film screening can be seen as an attempt to deflect attention from the uncomfortable truths the film presents. With public sentiment increasingly favoring Modi’s narrative, especially after his repeated electoral successes, the Congress and its allies face a dwindling base.
Modi’s journey from being denied a U.S. visa to receiving red-carpet treatment as a global leader is emblematic of his political resilience. His tenure as Prime Minister has been marked by efforts to reshape India’s global image and assert its geopolitical clout. Watching The Sabarmati Report with his cabinet ministers serves as a reminder of the trials he endured and the political forces arrayed against him.
The film is part of a broader trend in Indian cinema, with recent releases like The Kashmir Files highlighting narratives often ignored by mainstream discourse. These films resonate with audiences seeking alternative perspectives, challenging established nd political motivated narratives, and offering a sense of justice. For many, they expose the “dirty political games” played by the Congress to retain power.
Modi’s decision to watch The Sabarmati Report is more than just a leisure activity; it is a calculated political move. By publicly engaging with a film that revisits his most controversial chapter, he signals confidence in his vindication and a readiness to confront the opposition’s lingering accusations.
The opposition’s attempt to make a mountain out of a molehill may backfire, as the public sees through the politics of distraction. The film’s portrayal of resilience and justice aligns with Modi’s personal narrative, reinforcing his image as a leader who has overcome immense challenges. In the end, the screening of The Sabarmati Report is a testament to how cinema and politics intersect to shape public consciousness and political fortunes.
