Why Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Said ‘Batenge To Katenge’ Is Not A Slogan?

In recent days, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s message, “Batenge to Katenge,” has fueled political discourse across India. Joining the conversation, Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized on Sunday in Udaipur, Rajasthan that this phrase is not merely a slogan but a guiding principle. Addressing the media at Udaipur’s Circuit House, he urged Indians to recognize the importance of unity for the nation’s strength and survival.

Unity as the Pillar of India’s History

During his address, Shekhawat elaborated on the significance of the “Batenge to Katenge" (If we are divided, we will be cut) sentiment. 

He said, “In India’s Ganga-Jamuni culture, any division has led to a weakening of our society.” Referring to the past 1,500 years of Indian history, Shekhawat suggested that divisions in the country have often resulted in loss and fragmentation. 

Shekhawat said, "Pick up the map of India of the last 1500 years and see, wherever we get divided, we have suffered reverses. Therefore, we should not be divided, we should remain united. This is not a slogan but an idea."

'Area with a Decline in Hindu Population Separated from India'

He further said, "If we look from the point of view of India's history, then the area where the Hindu population decreased, that part has been separated from India. Be it Afghanistan or Pakistan. Later, an attempt was made to do the politics of separatism in Kashmir through conspiracy."

"Even if we look from that point of view, if we remain united, we will remain strong and our country will remain united."

The Union Minister, while referring to the slogan 'If we are divided, we will be cut off', said that, "This is not a Hindu-Muslim issue at all."

'Cong has engaged in divisive politics'

In response to Congress's statement, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat remarked, "Each person will interpret it based on their understanding and respond accordingly. Those who engage in religious politics tend to view it through a religious lens."

He further stated, "Congress has consistently engaged in divisive politics. Those who fragmented the country during independence based on religion, who divided it by class distinctions, language, and caste, perceive this as a form of partition."

(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)