Abhiraj Rajadhyaksha and Niyati Mavinkurve, popularly known as Abhi and Niyu, are a well-known YouTube duo who have built a significant following by creating content on various social and political issues. Recently, they have come under scrutiny for their perceived pro-government stance, especially in the wake of a public spat with fellow YouTuber Dhruv Rathee.
Abhi and Niyu’s Content and Government Support
Throughout their YouTube career, Abhi and Niyu have often praised the policies and initiatives of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government. Their videos frequently highlight India’s achievements and potential, with several focusing on Pakistan in a manner that supports the BJP’s narrative. However, they have rarely addressed pressing issues like unemployment and inflation, which have been significant concerns under the BJP administration.
Their support for the BJP was further evidenced when they received an award from the BJP government for their contributions to content creation. Critics argue that this accolade reinforces their bias and aligns them closer to the ruling party.
The Controversy with Dhruv Rathee
The tension between Abhi and Niyu and Dhruv Rathee has been escalating, particularly after Rathee criticized the Indian government for undermining democratic principles. Rathee highlighted concerns such as the arrest of opposition leaders on vague charges, election rigging, and the misuse of agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and Income Tax Department to suppress dissent.
Abhi and Niyu reacted strongly to these criticisms. They publicly denounced Rathee, accusing him of having a “colonized mind” that seeks validation from foreigners. They have also referred to him derogatorily as a “German Shepherd,” mocking his residence in Germany and implying he lacks the right to comment on Indian affairs.
Tweets Against Dhruv Rathee
The tweets by Abhi and Niyu against Dhruv Rathee reflect their aggressive stance:
“Some Indian minds are so colonised that they feel only a foreigner can save them and educate them.”
“I request all Indians to stop insulting German Shepherds.”
These tweets have been widely criticized as unprofessional and indicative of their unwillingness to engage in constructive dialogue.
Ignoring Critical Issues
One of the major criticisms against Abhi and Niyu is their selective coverage of issues. While they produce content that aligns with government propaganda, they often overlook critical problems such as the economic crisis, unemployment, and inflation. These issues have severely impacted the lives of millions of Indians, yet they remain underrepresented in Abhi and Niyu’s videos.
Dhruv Rathee’s emphasis on these problems has brought him into direct conflict with Abhi and Niyu, who prefer to focus on positive narratives that support the BJP’s image. This selective reporting has led many to accuse them of being apologists for the BJP, turning a blind eye to the hardships faced by the poor and marginalized sections of society.
The ongoing feud between Abhi and Niyu and Dhruv Rathee highlights the polarized nature of political discourse in India today. While Abhi and Niyu continue to champion the government’s policies, their reluctance to address significant issues such as unemployment and inflation raises questions about their objectivity. As influencers with substantial reach, their content plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion, making it essential for them to provide a balanced view that includes the challenges faced by the nation.