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Washington Post journalist alleges Modi govt using PR firms to influence foreign media

Speed News Desk | Updated on: 13 February 2017, 10:49 IST

On 27 November, the Indian Bureau Chief of The Washington Post, Annie Gowen, tweeted that private PR companies representing Indian government officials had reached out to them at least twice in the last few weeks.

The tweet led to an uproar on social media with people criticising the Indian government for misusing funds for image building purposes.

PM Modi is known for his smart PR skills and strong presence on social media. According to media reports, BJP had roped in advertising agency Soho Square for creating TV, print and radio campaigns during the 2014 General Elections.

Similarly, a music video containing the party anthem written by Prasoon Joshi was also released. Three Pune-based graphic designers were hired to create ads that were to be telecast during t-20 world cup. Also, Delhi-based advertising professional Sushil Goswami was hired to produce a second set of TV and radio ads for the party.

This proves that BJP and Modi are well accustomed with the art of PR and this is perhaps a big reason for his stellar performance in the national arena ahead of 2014 elections.

However, this revelation by Gowen raises question about the government's style of functioning and whether it is alright to use government funds on PR companies. The ruling AAP government in Delhi also faced ire after it was found that they were spending more than Rs 500 crore out of the exchequer on advertising purposes.

First published: 28 November 2015, 5:17 IST