Critics have pointed out the apparent contradiction in BJP’s stance, accusing the party itself of relying on communal narratives during elections
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has raised strong objections against several Muslim organizations and personalities who have publicly endorsed the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections. Accusing them of attempting to disrupt the election process, the BJP has demanded strict action from the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Supreme Court.
BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia, addressing a press conference at the party’s headquarters, alleged that organisations like the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and other Muslim groups have issued appeals to vote for the MVA in Maharashtra and for non-BJP alliances in Jharkhand. Bhatia termed this as a “threat to democratic principles,” coining the term “vote jihad” to describe the appeals.
He singled out Maulana Sajjad Nomani, a prominent member of the AIMPLB, for urging Muslims to support the MVA in 269 constituencies in Maharashtra and to back other non-BJP parties in the remaining seats. Similarly, Bhatia claimed that the Lohardaga unit of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind in Jharkhand had issued similar appeals, advocating for support to the Congress-Jharkhand Mukti Morcha alliance in the state.
“These appeals are a direct attack on the sanctity of democracy and represent an organised effort to polarise voters,” Bhatia stated. He demanded immediate intervention by the ECI and the Supreme Court, calling for a ban on such activities, which he argued “spoil the atmosphere of free and fair elections.”
The BJP’s criticism of the MVA’s endorsement by Muslim organisations has drawn sharp reactions from opposition parties and observers. Critics have pointed out the apparent contradiction in BJP’s stance, accusing the party itself of relying on communal narratives during elections.
Political analysts have highlighted the rhetoric of prominent BJP leaders like Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose campaign slogans, such as “Batenge toh Katenge” and “Ek hain to safe hain,” have been criticised for stoking communal sentiments.
Home Minister Amit Shah has also come under scrutiny for his inflammatory remarks, particularly his assertion that the controversial Waqf Bill would be passed “at any cost.” Analysts noted that such statements are designed to consolidate Hindu votes by invoking anti-Muslim sentiments, while simultaneously accusing opposition groups of communal politics.
Muslim organisations like the AIMPLB and Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind have defended their right to issue voting appeals, arguing that they are advocating for inclusive governance and secular politics. A senior leader from AIMPLB stated, “Muslims, like any other community, have the democratic right to participate in elections and express their preferences. Our appeals are rooted in safeguarding the constitutional values of secularism and democracy.”
In Maharashtra, where Muslims constitute 12% of the population and hold decisive influence in about 60 constituencies, Muslim organisations’ endorsement of the MVA could significantly impact the electoral outcome. The MVA, a coalition of Congress, the Uddhav Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena, and Sharad Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party, has traditionally relied on support from minority communities.
Opposition leaders have criticised the BJP for its “double standards.” They argue that organisations aligned with the BJP, such as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its affiliates, have historically played a significant role in mobilising votes in favour of the party.
“While the BJP freely uses its vast network of affiliates to campaign and polarise the electorate, it cries foul when Muslim organisations exercise their democratic rights,” said a Congress spokesperson.
The ongoing controversy reflects the deeply polarised nature of the Maharashtra Assembly elections, where communal narratives and identity politics have taken centre stage. The BJP has doubled down on its Hindutva agenda, while the MVA is positioning itself as a secular alternative capable of safeguarding minority rights.
The BJP’s accusations and the appeals by Muslim organisations are likely to intensify as the November 20 voting day approaches. The Election Commission and the Supreme Court are expected to face increased pressure to address these contentious issues and ensure that the elections proceed fairly.
As Maharashtra prepares for a historic electoral battle, the debate over the role of religious organisations in politics underscores the challenges of maintaining democratic norms in a polarised environment. The outcome of these elections will not only determine the state’s political future but also set a precedent for the interplay of religion and politics in India’s democratic process.
