Information and Broadcasting, and Electronics and Information Technology minister Ashwini Vaishnaw called out Meta founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg on Monday for spreading “misinformation” regarding the 2024 General Election.

Vaishnaw highlighted India’s successful conduct of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, with over 640 million voters participating. He underscored the people’s resounding trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a decisive third-term victory.

Zuckerberg had reportedly described the election as a loss for the “incumbent” government, a claim Vaishnaw firmly disputed. Highlighting the outcome of the elections, the minister stated, 

“As the world’s largest democracy, India conducted the 2024 elections with over 640 million voters. People of India reaffirmed their trust in NDA led by PM @narendramodi Ji’s leadership.  Mr. Zuckerberg’s claim that most incumbent governments, including India in 2024 elections, lost post-COVID is factually incorrect. From free food for 800 million, 2.2 billion free vaccines, and aid to nations worldwide during COVID, to leading India as the fastest-growing major economy, PM Modi’s decisive 3rd-term victory is a testament to good governance and public trust. @Meta, it’s disappointing to see misinformation from Mr. Zuckerberg himself. Let’s uphold facts and credibility,” read  Ashwini Vaishnaw’s post on X (formerly known as Twitter).

Countering Claims of Incumbent Defeats Post-COVID
Vaishnaw refuted Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s assertion that most incumbent governments, including India, lost power post-COVID. The minister pointed to the 2024 elections as clear evidence of public trust in PM Modi’s governance.

Highlighting the government’s achievements, Vaishnaw credited PM Modi’s leadership with decisive actions during the pandemic, including:

  • Free food distribution to 800 million people.
  • Administration of 2.2 billion free COVID-19 vaccines.
  • Extending aid to other nations during the global crisis.

He also emphasised India’s emergence as the fastest-growing major economy, bolstering trust in the NDA government.

Call for Fact-Based Discourse
Expressing disappointment in Zuckerberg’s remarks, Vaishnaw urged Meta to uphold factual accuracy and credibility. He emphasized the importance of responsible communication, particularly from influential global leaders.

Vaishnaw concluded by framing PM Modi’s third-term victory as a reflection of good governance and the enduring faith of the Indian people. This victory, he noted, is a powerful testament to the resilience and trust of the world’s largest democracy.