The Facts
A cartoon in the German magazine Der Spiegel caricaturing India as it becomes more populous than China has been criticized as being “racist” by Indian ministers.
The viral cartoon compares the "development levels" of India and China. The cartoon depicts an overcrowded train of Indians passing a Chinese bullet train.
The Spin
Narrative A
India has a fast-growing economy that will likely pass Germany in terms of GDP shortly. This cartoon just goes to show the West's fears of India's success. This distasteful and xenophobic cartoon has no resemblance to India's reality.
Narrative B
India, particularly under Modi, is quick to dismiss any negative portrayal as malicious misinformation. While India has surpassed China in terms of population, China is still miles ahead developmentally and demographically. The talent dividend has not disappeared and China has more educated workers. Size is not the only thing that matters.
