Why Doesn't PM Modi Hold Press Conferences? Kiren Rijiju Explains

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has defended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's approach to media interactions, amid a long-running debate over why the Prime Minister does not regularly hold open press conferences.

Speaking to India Today TV, Rijiju was asked whether Modi's limited participation in press conferences has reduced his direct engagement with the media.

Rijiju argued that Modi has interacted with journalists extensively through individual interviews and other media engagements. Referring to Modi's tenure as Gujarat chief minister, he also alleged that organised media campaigns had been conducted against the Prime Minister.

"When he knows that they are running a campaign, let's say, if it were against me, why would I hold a press conference?" Rijiju said.

Rijiju: Modi Has Given Numerous Media Interviews

Rijiju rejected the suggestion that Modi avoids communicating with journalists, saying the Prime Minister has given a large number of interviews during his political career.

"No Prime Minister would have given as many interviews to the media as Modi ji has," Rijiju said.

He questioned why Modi continues to be portrayed as a leader who does not engage with the media despite his interactions with journalists.

'Press Conferences Are Merely A Formality'

Rijiju also dismissed the argument that Modi should regularly face questions at press conferences, particularly when young people compare India's political leaders with leaders in other countries.

According to Rijiju, formal press conferences are largely a matter of convention, while Modi prefers communicating directly with citizens and different sections of society.

He pointed to the Prime Minister's interactions with scientists, students and sportspersons as examples of this approach.

Rijiju highlighted Modi's regular interactions with ISRO scientists and his annual interaction with students during the examination period through the government's exam-related outreach programmes.

He also cited Modi's engagement with Indian athletes before and after major sporting events, including the Olympics, Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.

Modi's Outreach Beyond The Media

Rijiju said Modi's engagement is not limited to journalists and prominent public figures. He claimed that the Prime Minister regularly interacts with farmers, children, senior citizens and opposition leaders.

"Anyone who interacts with Modi ji will tell you that no one has ever been a better listener than him," Rijiju said.

His comments come amid an ongoing public debate over Modi's media strategy. While the Prime Minister frequently participates in interviews, public events and direct interactions with citizens, his limited use of traditional open press conferences has continued to attract political and media scrutiny.

Rijiju's defence suggests that the government views direct public outreach and individual media interviews as a more meaningful form of communication than regular formal press conferences.