Dipke raised the question on social media platform X, drawing attention to the influence of social media on political communication and the growing debate over government restrictions on digital platforms.
In his comment, Dipke asked whether Modi would have been able to reach the same political position if Facebook and WhatsApp had faced similar restrictions during former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s tenure.
The question reflects Dipke’s perspective on the relationship between social media access and political success. However, it does not establish that restrictions on social media would have changed Modi’s political trajectory.
A decade ago, political parties primarily relied on rallies, public meetings, newspapers and television to communicate their messages to the public. The growing use of Facebook and WhatsApp has significantly changed this landscape, allowing political leaders and their teams to reach people directly.
Supporters can also share posts and videos, helping bring political issues into public discussion more quickly.
Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have also used social media to communicate with people. Platforms such as Instagram have now become an important part of political outreach, with leaders and their teams using short videos, photographs and direct messages to connect with large audiences.
Government Restrictions and Questions Over Social Media Freedom
Imagine if Manmohan Singh had cracked down on Facebook and WhatsApp the way Modi is doing with Instagram today. Would Modi have made it this far?
— Abhijeet Dipke (@abhijeet_dipke) October 28, 2026
Dipke’s comment also brings the impact of government restrictions on political communication into focus.
When action is taken against content on a social media platform, including the removal of material, suspension of accounts or restrictions on the reach of posts, it can trigger a debate over whether the measures are intended to enforce rules or restrict people's voices.
However, the reasons behind each action may differ. Therefore, any action taken against one platform needs to be examined carefully rather than automatically linked to developments involving other platforms.
Sit down Baune @abhijeet_dipke !! Manmohan Govt says hello to you!! https://t.co/Xiyqq5v8Th
— Rohit (@Iam_Rohit_G) October 28, 2026
Dipke’s question highlights the extent to which social media has transformed politics and how political leaders might have communicated with the public differently if these platforms had faced stricter restrictions.
Important message of Abhijit Dipke, https://t.co/OIUQev4ec4
— Cockroaches of India (@CJP_for_India) October 23, 2026
There is no definitive answer to whether such restrictions would have altered Modi’s political journey. What remains clear is that social media has become a major channel for political communication and a significant platform through which public opinion is shaped.
The debate raised by Dipke underscores the importance of examining how restrictions on digital platforms could affect political messaging, public engagement and the ability of leaders to communicate directly with citizens.
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