I am a researcher who took a casual interest in politics, believing that facts, evidence, and critical thinking should guide public discourse. Over the years, however, I have watched political discussions become increasingly driven by blind loyalty, identity politics, and misinformation. Scientific temper, questioning authority, and demanding evidence—values that should strengthen a democracy—are often treated as threats.

This petition is a small step toward changing that.

India is the world's largest democracy. Yet for more than a decade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has largely avoided open, unscripted press conferences where independent journalists can freely ask questions and seek follow-up answers. Previous Prime Ministers regularly faced the press, including on difficult and controversial issues. Whether one agreed with them or not, they subjected themselves to public scrutiny.

Today, communication between the Prime Minister and citizens is largely one-way. Through speeches, social media, Mann Ki Baat, public rallies, and carefully curated interviews, the government communicates its message to the people. But where is the reverse channel?

In a democracy, communication cannot flow only from the government to the citizens. Citizens must also have a way to ask questions of their elected leaders. That role is performed by a free and independent press.

The press is often called the fourth pillar of democracy not because it exists to amplify the government's message, but because it acts as a bridge between the people and those in power. Journalists ask questions that ordinary citizens cannot ask directly. They seek clarification, challenge contradictions, and raise concerns that affect millions of lives.

A scripted interview is not a substitute for a press conference.

In a genuine press conference, questions are unscripted. Follow-up questions are possible. Difficult subjects cannot simply be ignored. Accountability becomes unavoidable.

The Prime Minister asks citizens for their votes, their trust, and their mandate. Is it unreasonable for citizens to expect answers in return?

Millions of Indians have legitimate questions about unemployment, inflation, examination paper leaks, public institutions, governance, economic policy, national security, and the future direction of the country. These questions deserve direct answers from the nation's highest elected office.

This petition is not about supporting or opposing any political party. The principle would remain the same regardless of who occupies the Prime Minister's office.

Democracy does not end on election day.

Democracy requires transparency. Democracy requires scrutiny. Democracy requires accountability.

A confident government should welcome questions. A strong leader should not be insulated from them.

We therefore call upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold an open, unscripted press conference with independent journalists and answer questions on matters of national importance.

This is not a partisan demand.

It is a democratic one.

Sign this petition if you believe India's citizens deserve direct answers from their elected leadership.

#PressConferenceForIndia #DemocraticAccountability #RightToQuestions