Kiren Rijiju defends PM Modi’s media strategy and interview record

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has defended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s media strategy, specifically addressing the lack of regular press conferences. In an interview with India Today, Rijiju claimed that no other Prime Minister in history has given as many interviews as Modi has in recent years.

Rijiju dismissed traditional press conferences as mere “formalities,” arguing that the Prime Minister prefers direct engagement with various sectors of society. He cited Modi’s regular interactions with ISRO scientists, annual dialogues with students during exam seasons, and meetings with athletes before and after major international competitions like the Olympics and Asian Games as evidence of his communicative approach.

Addressing the perception that the Prime Minister avoids the media, Rijiju referenced Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, alleging that he was subject to an “organized media campaign.” He questioned the logic of holding press conferences when facing such coordinated opposition, suggesting that personal interactions and targeted interviews are more effective forms of engagement.