Popular national journalist, Arnab Goswami, has long been known for his affinity towards the BJP government and his respect for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
However, over the last two days, he has taken a sharp and unexpected turn, launching a strong journalistic attack on the BJP government and questioning its priorities.
Arnab Goswami first urged people to rise against the worsening AQI (Air Quality Index), which has reached hazardous levels in Delhi and several other cities.
It is a matter of shame that Delhi and its surrounding regions are among the world’s most polluted areas.
India consistently ranks at the top globally for poor AQI in many of its cities from North to South and East to West, leading to severe lung, heart and mental health issues for its citizens.
The journalist initiated a hashtag campaign, “NOTAforAQI,” suggesting that people should vote for the BJP only if it ensures clean air and better air quality.
He remarked that when the nation is choking and people are suffering due to pollution, discussions on slogans like Vande Mataram in Parliament reflect a Marie Antoinette–style disconnect from reality.
The following day, Arnab Goswami also lambasted a BJP leader from Indore who celebrated a family wedding lavishly, reportedly spending around Rs 70 lakh on fireworks alone.
He stated that extravagant weddings by industrialists may be their personal choice, but politicians should not indulge in such obscene displays of wealth when their own state is grappling with poverty, hardship and unresolved public issues.
He further warned that repeated displays of excess could provoke youth anger, cautioning that a Gen Z–style protest, similar to what recently occurred in Nepal, could erupt in India if frustration continues to grow.
Arnab Goswami also pointed out that BJP leaders and leaders from BJP-ruled coalition states are increasingly showcasing luxury lifestyles, including frequent travel in private jets and extravagant personal events.
He warned that such behavior could generate deep resentment among the youth.
Indirectly, he appeared to reference Andhra Pradesh as well, where leaders in power have been seen traveling in private jets with overt displays of authority and privilege.
It remains to be seen what other issues Arnab Goswami will raise in the coming days.
While many netizens are surprised by his sudden U-turn, a large section of the public is applauding him for what they describe as bold and fearless journalism.