Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, has sharpened the political discourse ahead of the state elections by calling for a “religious war of votes” to counter what he termed as “Vote Jihad.” Speaking at a rally in Khadakwasla, Fadnavis accused the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) of engaging in divisive politics and attempting to polarize voters along religious lines.

Fadnavis cited a controversial video of Islamic scholar Sajjid Nomani as evidence of the alleged attempts to destabilize both the BJP-led Maharashtra and Union governments. He claimed that such tactics aimed to create societal rifts for electoral gain.

“Certain parties are trying to create divisions among voters based on religion during elections. This is an attempt to destabilize our government and the nation,” Fadnavis said.

Inclusive Welfare Schemes vs. Appeasement Politics

Highlighting the BJP’s inclusive welfare schemes, Fadnavis contrasted his government’s initiatives, such as the Ladki Bahin Yojana, with the MVA’s alleged focus on religious appeasement. He stressed that the scheme benefits women across all communities without discrimination.

“When we launched the Ladki Bahin Yojana, it wasn’t restricted to Hindu women or women of any specific religion. But certain parties are trying to exploit religion for electoral gain,” he added.

The deputy chief minister launched a scathing attack on Congress, Sharad Pawar, and Uddhav Thackeray, accusing them of prioritizing appeasement politics over equitable governance. He referenced a purported 17-point charter submitted by the Ulama Council to the MVA, which included demands such as a 10 percent reservation for Muslims and the withdrawal of criminal cases against Muslim youth involved in riots from 2012 to 2024.

“These are not just demands; they are dangerous attempts to create a wedge in society,” Fadnavis said, alleging that the MVA had made written promises to fulfill these demands if they returned to power.

Fadnavis concluded his address by urging voters to stand united against divisive forces, emphasizing that unity was essential for stability and progress.

“If there’s a ‘Vote Jihad,’ we must counter it with a ‘religious war of votes.’ Only by standing together can we ensure safety and stability,” he asserted.

As Maharashtra gears up for its elections, the rhetoric from both sides signals an intense battle, with polarizing issues taking center stage in political campaigns.