Political Hijacking – Spot the Power Play Behind Today’s News
Ever felt like a news story suddenly switches focus to a politician’s agenda? That’s political hijacking at work. It’s when a topic, an event, or even a harmless comment gets grabbed by a political force and turned into a point‑blank statement for their own goals. The original issue often gets lost, while the narrative pushes a particular view.
What Is Political Hijacking?
In plain terms, political hijacking is the act of taking over a conversation to serve a political purpose. It can happen on TV, in social media, or even in everyday chats. For example, a discussion about a cricket match might quickly turn into a debate about national unity when a leader like PM Modi brings his mantra of togetherness into the mix. The core sport story fades, and the spotlight shifts to the political message.
Key signs include:
- Sudden change of topic toward a policy or leader.
- Emphasis on emotions – pride, fear, anger – rather than facts.
- Use of buzzwords like "unity" or "progress" to mask the real issue.
When these patterns appear, you’re probably looking at a hijacked narrative.
Spotting the Signs in Everyday News
Think about a post that asks, "Does any Indian watch DD News?" It seems simple, but when a channel frames the question around government control, it can become a subtle jab at state media. The real question – viewership numbers – may get sidelined. That’s hijacking in action: a neutral topic reshaped to critique or support a political stance.
Another common scene: a story about a new smartphone, like the Redmi Note 12 Pro+, suddenly gets a paragraph about how tech growth reflects the country's economic policies. The gadget review is still there, but the tech angle becomes a vehicle for political praise.
To keep your mind clear, ask these quick questions:
- Is the original subject still the main focus?
- Are there emotional triggers that feel out of place?
- Does the piece push a specific political agenda?
If the answer is yes, you’ve likely encountered political hijacking.
Understanding the tactic helps you stay informed without being swayed. It’s not about being cynical; it’s about recognizing when a conversation is being steered. The next time you scroll past a headline, pause and ask whether the story is about the event itself or about a political point someone wants to make. That simple habit can keep the real news from getting lost in the noise.
Arvind Chatterjee, Jul, 18 2023
The question of whether the BJP has been hijacked by Amit Shah and Narendra Modi is a topic of heated debate. Critics argue that the duo has centralized power, creating a top-down leadership style that limits internal democracy. Supporters, however, claim they have strengthened the party, driving its remarkable electoral successes. While it's undeniable that their influence is significant, whether this constitutes a 'hijacking' is largely a matter of interpretation. As always, it's crucial to consider multiple perspectives when engaging with this complex and contentious topic.
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