As the Maharashtra Assembly elections-2024gain momentum, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, representing the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance (Mahayuti), distanced himself from divisive rhetoric employed by leaders from other states.
Pawar stated, “The slogan ‘Bantenge to Katenge’ may work in Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand, but it will not resonate here in Maharashtra. I do not endorse it. Our slogan is ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas’ (Together for Everyone’s Development).”
In recent rallies across Maharashtra and Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been using slogans like “Bantenge to Katenge” and “Ek Rahenge to Nek Rahenge,” aimed at promoting unity through implied warnings about the consequences of division. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also supported this theme, delivering the slogan “Ek Rahenge Safe Rahenge” during election speeches, emphasizing the security of unity.
Addressing the media, Ajit Pawar commented on the rhetoric introduced by leaders from other states, saying, “BJP Chief Ministers from other states have their agendas, but statements like these do not reflect Maharashtra’s political landscape. While we are working collectively within Mahayuti, we come from different ideological backgrounds. This type of message might work elsewhere, but it does not align with Maharashtra’s approach.”
Shiv Sena Responds: A Call for Pawar to Reconsider
In response, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader Sanjay Nirupam defended Adityanath’s message, stating that the slogan underscores the strength of unity over division. “Yogi Adityanath is conveying that separation leads to weakness, while unity leads to strength,” Nirupam said, adding, “Ajit Dada may not see it now, but he will understand in time. ‘If divided, they will be cut’ is a sentiment that holds true, and Ajit Dada will need to understand its importance.”
Opposition leaders also slam divisive messaging
Not only Pawar, but opposition leaders have also criticized the BJP’s divisive messaging. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of fostering divisive politics, particularly through these recent slogans. He emphasized that such rhetoric, which the Congress views as an attempt to drive a wedge between religious communities, is detrimental to social harmony.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge echoed this criticism during a rally in Nagpur, remarking, “Yogi Adityanath speaks of unity with ‘Ram on his lips and a knife under his arm.’ He adopts the garb of a monk, yet speaks of division and violence. The same hand that claims unity also promotes separation.”
In this election season, leaders are not only engaging in a rhetorical battle but also presenting their vision for Maharashtra’s future, aiming to address the economic and social concerns of voters across the state.
(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)
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