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Political leadership uses symbolism and fear to consolidate power
The current administration is utilizing specific symbols and rituals to construct a narrative of absolute authority and centralized leadership. This approach includes the adoption of the tiger as a symbol to represent strength and domination, aimed at projecting an image of control through perceived constant threat.
The government's strategy involves creating enemies, ranging from illegal actors to political opposition, and using fear as a primary tool of governance. Key elements of this political stagecraft include the use of military presence, the implementation of megaprisons, and framing human rights and social advancements—such as feminism—as obstacles to national development.
While the state is responsible for maintaining the conditions necessary for cultural production, there are concerns that current policies favor a militaristic and uniform vision of culture over pluralism. Critics argue that the administration confuses culture with doctrine, attempting to replace diverse social expressions with state-sanctioned symbols and military-style discipline.